COMPLEMENT COMPONENT C5 iRNA COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to iRNA, e.g., double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA), compositions targeting the complement component C5 gene, and methods of using such iRNA, e.g., dsRNA, compositions to inhibit expression of C5 and to treat subjects having a complement component C5-associated disease, e.g., paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This applicaton is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/404,862, filed on May 7, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/606,224, filed on May 26, 2017, abandoned, whichis a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/151,568, filedon May 11, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,701,963, issued on Jul. 11, 2017,which is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/976,261, filed on Dec. 21, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,850,488, issuedon Dec. 26, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. application Ser.No. 14/699,140, filed on Apr. 29, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,249,415,issued on Feb. 2, 2016, which is a 35 U.S.C. 111(a) continuationapplication which claims the benefit of priority to PCT/US2014/025882,filed on Mar. 13, 2014; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.:61/782,531, filed on Mar. 14, 2013; U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo.: 61/837,399, filed on Jun. 20, 2013; U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No.: 61/904,579, filed on Nov. 15, 2013; U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No.: 61/912,777, filed on Dec. 6, 2013; and U.S.Provisional Patent Application No.: 61/942,367, filed on Feb. 20, 2014.The entire contents of each of the foregoing patent applications arehereby incorporated herein by reference.

SEQUENCE LISTING

The instant application contains a Sequence Listing which has beensubmitted electronically in ASCII format and is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety. Said ASCII copy, created on Jul. 6, 2021, isnamed Seq_Listing_50100.txt and is 735,003 bytes in size.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Complement was first discovered in the 1890s when it was found to aid or“complement” the killing of bacteria by heat-stable antibodies presentin normal serum (Walport, M. J. (2001) N Engl J Med. 344:1058). Thecomplement system consists of more than 30 proteins that are eitherpresent as soluble proteins in the blood or are present asmembrane-associated proteins. Activation of complement leads to asequential cascade of enzymatic reactions, known as complementactivation pathways, resulting in the formation of the potentanaphylatoxins C3a and C5a that elicit a plethora of physiologicalresponses that range from chemoattraction to apoptosis. Initially,complement was thought to play a major role in innate immunity where arobust and rapid response is mounted against invading pathogens.However, recently it is becoming increasingly evident that complementalso plays an important role in adaptive immunity involving T and Bcells that help in elimination of pathogens (Dunkelberger J R and Song WC. (2010) Cell Res. 20:34; Molina H, et al. (1996) Proc Natl Acad SciUSA. 93:3357), in maintaining immunologic memory preventing pathogenicre-invasion, and is involved in numerous human pathological states (Qu,H, et al. (2009) Mol Immunol. 47:185; Wagner, E. and Frank M M. (2010)Nat Rev Drug Discov. 9:43).

Complement activation is known to occur through three differentpathways: alternate, classical, and lectin (FIG. 1), involving proteinsthat mostly exist as inactive zymogens that are then sequentiallycleaved and activated. All pathways of complement activation lead tocleavage of the C5 molecule generating the anaphylatoxin C5a and, C5bthat subsequently forms the terminal complement complex (C5b-9). C5aexerts a predominant pro-inflammatory activity through interactions withthe classical G-protein coupled receptor C5aR (CD88) as well as with thenon-G protein coupled receptor C5L2 (GPR77), expressed on various immuneand non-immune cells. C5b-9 causes cytolysis through the formation ofthe membrane attack complex (MAC), and sub-lytic MAC and soluble C5b-9also possess a multitude of non-cytolytic immune functions. These twocomplement effectors, C5a and C5b-9, generated from C5 cleavage, are keycomponents of the complement system responsible for propagating and/orinitiating pathology in different diseases, including paroxysmalnocturnal hemoglobinuria, rheumatoid arthritis, ischemia-reperfusioninjuries and neurodegenerative diseases.

To date, only one therapeutic that targets the C5-C5a axis is availablefor the treatment of complement component C5-associated diseases, theanti-C5 antibody, eculizumab (Soliris®). Although eculizumab has beenshown to be effective for the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnalhemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) andis currently being evaluated in clinical trials for additionalcomplement component C5-associated diseases, eculizumab therapy requiresweekly high dose infusions followed by biweekly maintenance infusions ata yearly cost of about $400,000. Accordingly, there is a need in the artfor alternative therapies and combination therapies for subjects havinga complement component C5-associated disease.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides iRNA compositions which effect theRNA-induced silencing complex (RISC)-mediated cleavage of RNAtranscripts of a C5 gene. The C5 gene may be within a cell, e.g., a cellwithin a subject, such as a human. The present invention also providesmethods and combination therapies for treating a subject having adisorder that would benefit from inhibiting or reducing the expressionof a C5 gene, e.g., a complement component C5-associated disease, suchas paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical hemolyticuremic syndrome (aHUS) using iRNA compositions which effect theRNA-induced silencing complex (RISC)-mediated cleavage of RNAtranscripts of a C5 gene for inhibiting the expression of a C5 gene.

Accordingly, in one aspect, the present invention provides adouble-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) agent for inhibiting expressionof complement component C5, wherein the dsRNA comprises a sense strandand an antisense strand, wherein the sense strand comprises at least 15contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotides from thenucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 and the antisense strand comprises atleast 15 contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotidesfrom the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:5.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a double-strandedribonucleic acid (dsRNA) agent for inhibiting expression of complementcomponent C5, wherein the dsRNA comprises a sense strand and anantisense strand, the antisense strand comprising a region ofcomplementarity which comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotidesdiffering by no more than 3 nucleotides from any one of the antisensesequences listed in any one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and23.

In one embodiment, the sense and antisense strands comprise sequencesselected from the group consisting of A-118320, A-118321, A-118316,A-118317, A-118332, A-118333, A-118396, A-118397, A-118386, A-118387,A-118312, A-118313, A-118324, A-118325, A-119324, A-119325, A-119332,A-119333, A-119328, A-119329, A-119322, A-119323, A-119324, A-119325,A-119334, A-119335, A-119330, A-119331, A-119326, A-119327, A-125167,A-125173, A-125647, A-125157, A-125173, and A-125127. In anotherembodiment, the sense and antisense strands comprise sequences selectedfrom the group consisting of any of the sequences in any one of Tables3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23. In one embodiment, the dsRNA agentcomprises at least one modified nucleotide.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a double-strandedribonucleic acid (dsRNA) agent for inhibiting expression of complementcomponent C5, wherein the dsRNA agent comprises a sense strand and anantisense strand, wherein the sense strand comprises the nucleotidesequence AAGCAAGAUAUUUUUAUAAUA (SEQ ID NO:62) and wherein the antisensestrand comprises the nucleotide sequence UAUUAUAAAAAUAUCUUGCUUUU (SEQ IDNO:113). In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent comprises at least onemodified nucleotide, as described below.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a double stranded RNAiagent for inhibiting expression of complement component C5 wherein thedouble stranded RNAi agent comprises a sense strand and an antisensestrand forming a double-stranded region, wherein the sense strandcomprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 and theantisense strand comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differingby no more than 3 nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ IDNO:5, wherein substantially all of the nucleotides of the sense strandand substantially all of the nucleotides of the antisense strand aremodified nucleotides, and wherein the sense strand is conjugated to aligand attached at the 3′-terminus.

In one embodiment, all of the nucleotides of the sense strand and all ofthe nucleotides of the antisense strand comprise a modification.

In one embodiment, substantially all of the nucleotides of the sensestrand are modified nucleotides selected from the group consisting of a2′-O-methyl modification, a 2′-fluoro modification and a 3′-terminaldeoxy-thymine (dT) nucleotide. In another embodiment, substantially allof the nucleotides of the antisense strand are modified nucleotidesselected from the group consisting of a 2′-O-methyl modification, a2′-fluoro modification and a 3′-terminal deoxy-thymine (dT) nucleotide.In another embodiment, the modified nucleotides are a short sequence ofdeoxy-thymine (dT) nucleotides. In another embodiment, the sense strandcomprises two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkages at the5′-terminus. In one embodiment, the antisense strand comprises twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkages at the 5′-terminus and twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkages at the 3′-terminus. In yetanother embodiment, the sense strand is conjugated to one or more GalNAcderivatives attached through a branched bivalent or trivalent linker atthe 3′-terminus.

In one embodiment, at least one of the modified nucleotides is selectedfrom the group consisting of a 3′-terminal deoxy-thymine (dT)nucleotide, a 2′-O-methyl modified nucleotide, a 2′-fluoro modifiednucleotide, a 2′-deoxy-modified nucleotide, a locked nucleotide, anabasic nucleotide, a 2′-amino-modified nucleotide, a 2′-alkyl-modifiednucleotide, a morpholino nucleotide, a phosphoramidate, a non-naturalbase comprising nucleotide, a nucleotide comprising a5′-phosphorothioate group, and a terminal nucleotide linked to acholesteryl derivative or a dodecanoic acid bisdecylamide group.

In another embodiment, the modified nucleotides comprise a shortsequence of 3′-terminal deoxy-thymine (dT) nucleotides.

In one embodiment, the region of complementarity is at least 17nucleotides in length. In another embodiment, the region ofcomplementarity is between 19 and 21 nucleotides in length.

In one embodiment, the region of complementarity is 19 nucleotides inlength.

In one embodiment, each strand is no more than 30 nucleotides in length.

In one embodiment, at least one strand comprises a 3′ overhang of atleast 1 nucleotide.

In another embodiment,at least one strand comprises a 3′ overhang of atleast 2 nucleotides.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent further comprises a ligand.

In one embodiment, the ligand is conjugated to the 3′ end of the sensestrand of the dsRNA agent.

In one embodiment, the ligand is an N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc)derivative.

In one embodiment, the ligand is

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is conjugated to the ligand as shownin the following schematic

and, wherein X is O or S.

In one embodiment, the X is O.

In one embodiment, the region of complementarity consists of one of theantisense sequences of any one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and23.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is selected from the group consistingof AD-58123, AD-58111, AD-58121, AD-58116, AD-58133, AD-58099, AD-58088,AD-58642, AD-58644, AD-58641, AD-58647, AD-58645, AD-58643, AD-58646,AD-62510, AD-62643, AD-62645, AD-62646, AD-62650, and AD-62651.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a double-strandedribonucleic acid (dsRNA) agent for inhibiting expression of complementcomponent C5, wherein the dsRNA agent comprises a sense strand and anantisense strand, wherein the sense strand comprises the nucleotidesequence AAGCAAGAUAUUUUUAUAAUA (SEQ ID NO:62) and wherein the antisensestrand comprises the nucleotide sequence UAUUAUAAAAAUAUCUUGCUUUUdTdT(SEQ ID NO:2899).

In another aspect, the present invention provides a double-strandedribonucleic acid (dsRNA) agent for inhibiting expression of complementcomponent C5, wherein the dsRNA agent comprises a sense strand and anantisense strand, wherein the sense strand comprises the nucleotidesequence asasGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuuAfuAfauaL96 (SEQ ID NO:2876) andwherein the antisense strand comprises the nucleotide sequenceusAfsUfuAfuaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT (SEQ ID NO:2889).

In one aspect, the present invention provides a double stranded RNAiagent capable of inhibiting the expression of complement component C5 ina cell, wherein the double stranded RNAi agent comprises a sense strandcomplementary to an antisense strand, wherein the antisense strandcomprises a region complementary to part of an mRNA encoding C5, whereineach strand is about 14 to about 30 nucleotides in length, wherein thedouble stranded RNAi agent is represented by formula (III):

(III) sense:5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-(X X X)_(i)-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-(Z Z Z)_(j)-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′antisense:3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-(X′X′X′)_(k)-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-(Z′Z′Z′)_(l)-N_(a)′-n_(q)′ 5′

wherein:

i, j, k, and l are each independently 0 or 1;

p, p′, q, and q′ are each independently 0-6;

each N_(a) and N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-25 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof, each sequence comprising at leasttwo differently modified nucleotides;

each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-10 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof;

each n_(p), n_(p)′, n_(q), and n_(q)′, each of which may or may not bepresent, independently represents an overhang nucleotide;

XXX, YYY, ZZZ, X′X′X′, Y′Y′Y′, and Z′Z′Z′ each independently representone motif of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides;

modifications on N_(b) differ from the modification on Y andmodifications on N_(b)′ differ from the modification on Y′; and

wherein the sense strand is conjugated to at least one ligand.

In one embodiment, i is 0; j is 0; i is 1; j is 1; both i and j are 0;or both i and j are 1.

In one embodiment, k is 0; l is 0; k is 1; l is 1; both k and l are 0;or both k and l are 1.

In one embodiment, XXX is complementary to X′X′X′, YYY is complementaryto Y′Y′Y′, and ZZZ is complementary to Z′Z′Z′.

In one embodiment, the YYY motif occurs at or near the cleavage site ofthe sense strand.

In one embodiment, the Y′Y′Y′ motif occurs at the 11, 12 and 13positions of the antisense strand from the 5′-end.

In one embodiment, the Y′ is 2′-O-methyl.

In one embodiment, formula (III) is represented by formula (IIIa):

(IIIa) sense: 5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-Y Y Y-Na-n_(q) 3′ antisense:3′ n_(p′)-N_(a′)-Y′Y′Y′-N_(a′)-n_(q′) 5′.

In another embodiment, formula (III) is represented by formula (IIIb):

(IIIb) sense: 5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-Z Z Z-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′ antisense:3′ n_(p′)-N_(a′)-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b′)-Z′Z′Z′-N_(a′)-n_(q′) 5′

wherein each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents anoligonucleotide sequence comprising 1-5 modified nucleotides.

In yet another embodiment, formula (III) is represented by formula(IIIc):

sense: (IIIc) 5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-X X X-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′ antisense:3′ n_(p′)-N_(a′)-X′X′X′-N_(b′)-Y′Y′Y′-N_(a′)-n_(q′) 5′

wherein each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents anoligonucleotide sequence comprising 1-5 modified nucleotides.

In another embodiment, formula (III) is represented by formula (IIId):

(IIId) sense:5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-X X X-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-Z Z Z-N_(a)-N_(q) 3′ antisense:3′ n_(p′)-N_(a′)-X′X′X′-N_(b′)-Y′Y′Y-N_(b′)-Z′Z′Z′-N_(a′)-n_(q′) 5′

wherein each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents anoligonucleotide sequence comprising 1-5 modified nucleotides and eachN_(a) and N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotide sequencecomprising 2-10 modified nucleotides.

In one embodiment, the double-stranded region is 15-30 nucleotide pairsin length.

In one embodiment, the double-stranded region is 17-23 nucleotide pairsin length. In another embodiment, the double-stranded region is 17-25nucleotide pairs in length. In another embodiment, the double-strandedregion is 23-27 nucleotide pairs in length. In yet another embodiment,the double-stranded region is 19-21 nucleotide pairs in length. Inanother embodiment, the double-stranded region is 21-23 nucleotide pairsin length.

In one embodiment, each strand has 15-30 nucleotides.

In one embodiment, the modifications on the nucleotides are selectedfrom the group consisting of LNA, HNA, CeNA, 2′-methoxyethyl,2′-O-alkyl, 2′-O-allyl, 2′-C-allyl, 2′-fluoro, 2′-deoxy, 2′-hydroxyl,and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the modifications on the nucleotides are 2′-O-methylor 2′-fluoro modifications.

In one embodiment, the ligand is one or more GalNAc derivatives attachedthrough a bivalent or trivalent branched linker.

In one embodiment, the ligand is

In one embodiment, the ligand is attached to the 3′ end of the sensestrand.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent is conjugated to the ligand as shownin the following schematic

In one embodiment, the agent further comprises at least onephosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotide linkage.

In one embodiment, the phosphorothioate or methylphosphonateinternucleotide linkage is at the 3′-terminus of one strand.

In one embodiment, the strand is the antisense strand. In anotherembodiment, the strand is the sense strand.

In one embodiment, the phosphorothioate or methylphosphonateinternucleotide linkage is at the 5′-terminus of one strand.

In one embodiment, the strand is the antisense strand. In anotherembodiment, the strand is the sense strand.

In one embodiment, the phosphorothioate or methylphosphonateinternucleotide linkage is at the both the 5′- and 3′-terminus of onestrand.

In one embodiment, the strand is the antisense strand.

In one embodiment, the base pair at the 1 position of the 5′-end of theantisense strand of the duplex is an AU base pair.

In one embodiment, the Y nucleotides contain a 2′-fluoro modification.

In one embodiment, the Y′ nucleotides contain a 2′-O-methylmodification.

In one embodiment, p′>0.

In one embodiment, p′=2.

In one embodiment, q′=0, p=0, q=0, and p′ overhang nucleotides arecomplementary to the target mRNA.

In one embodiment, q′=0, p=0, q=0, and p′ overhang nucleotides arenon-complementary to the target mRNA.

In one embodiment, the sense strand has a total of 21 nucleotides andthe antisense strand has a total of 23 nucleotides.

In one embodiment, at least one n_(p)′ is linked to a neighboringnucleotide via a phosphorothioate linkage.

In one embodiment, all n_(p)′ are linked to neighboring nucleotides viaphosphorothioate linkages.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent is selected from the group of RNAiagents listed in Table 4, Table 18, Table 19, or Table 23. In anotherembodiment, the RNAi agent is selected from the group consisting ofAD-58123, AD-58111, AD-58121, AD-58116, AD-58133, AD-58099, AD-58088,AD-58642, AD-58644, AD-58641, AD-58647, AD-58645, AD-58643, AD-58646,AD-62510, AD-62643, AD-62645, AD-62646, AD-62650, and AD-62651.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a double stranded RNAiagent capable of inhibiting the expression of complement component C5 ina cell, wherein said double stranded RNAi agent comprises a sense strandcomplementary to an antisense strand, wherein said antisense strandcomprises a region complementary to part of an mRNA encoding complementcomponent C5, wherein each strand is about 14 to about 30 nucleotides inlength, wherein said double stranded RNAi agent is represented byformula (III):

(III) sense:5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-(X X X)_(i)-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-(Z Z Z)_(j)-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′antisense:3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-(X′X′X′)_(k)-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-(Z′Z′Z′)_(l)-N_(a)′-n_(q)′ 5′

wherein:

i, j, k, and l are each independently 0 or 1;

p, p′, q, and q′ are each independently 0-6;

each N_(a) and N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-25 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof, each sequence comprising at leasttwo differently modified nucleotides;

each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-10 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof;

-   -   each n_(p), n_(p)′, n_(q), and n_(q)′, each of which may or may        not be present independently represents an overhang nucleotide;

XXX, YYY, ZZZ, X′X′X′, Y′Y′Y′, and Z′Z′Z′ each independently representone motif of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides, and wherein the modifications are 2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoromodifications;

modifications on N_(b) differ from the modification on Y andmodifications on N_(b)′ differ from the modification on Y′; and

wherein the sense strand is conjugated to at least one ligand.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a double stranded RNAiagent capable of inhibiting the expression of complement component C5 ina cell, wherein said double stranded RNAi agent comprises a sense strandcomplementary to an antisense strand, wherein said antisense strandcomprises a region complementary to part of an mRNA encoding complementcomponent C5, wherein each strand is about 14 to about 30 nucleotides inlength, wherein said double stranded RNAi agent is represented byformula (III):

(III) sense:5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-(X X X)_(i)-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-(Z Z Z)_(j)-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′antisense:3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-(X′X′X′)_(k)-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-(Z′Z′Z′)_(l)-N_(a)′-n_(q)′ 5′

wherein:

i, j, k, and 1 are each independently 0 or 1;

each n_(p), n_(q), and n_(q)′, each of which may or may not be present,independently represents an overhang nucleotide;

-   -   p, q, and q′ are each independently 0-6;    -   n_(p)′>0 and at least one n_(p)′ is linked to a neighboring        nucleotide via a phosphorothioate linkage;

each N_(a) and N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-25 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof, each sequence comprising at leasttwo differently modified nucleotides;

each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-10 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof;

XXX, YYY, ZZZ, X′X′X′, Y′Y′Y′, and Z′Z′Z′ each independently representone motif of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides, and wherein the modifications are 2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoromodifications;

modifications on N_(b) differ from the modification on Y andmodifications on N_(b)′ differ from the modification on Y′; and

wherein the sense strand is conjugated to at least one ligand.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a double stranded RNAiagent capable of inhibiting the expression of complement component C5 ina cell, wherein said double stranded RNAi agent comprises a sense strandcomplementary to an antisense strand, wherein said antisense strandcomprises a region complementary to part of an mRNA encoding complementcomponent C5, wherein each strand is about 14 to about 30 nucleotides inlength, wherein said double stranded RNAi agent is represented byformula (III):

(III) sense:5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-(X X X)_(i)-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-(Z Z Z)_(j)-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′antisense:3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-(X′X′X′)_(k)-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-(Z′Z′Z′)_(l)-N_(a)′-n_(q)′ 5′

wherein:

i, j, k, and l are each independently 0 or 1;

each n_(p), n_(q), and n_(q)′, each of which may or may not be present,independently represents an overhang nucleotide;

-   -   p, q, and q′ are each independently 0-6;    -   n_(p)′>0 and at least one n_(p)′ is linked to a neighboring        nucleotide via a phosphorothioate linkage;

each N_(a) and N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-25 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof, each sequence comprising at leasttwo differently modified nucleotides;

each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-10 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof;

-   -   XXX, YYY, ZZZ, X′X′X′, Y′Y′Y′, and Z′Z′Z′ each independently        represent one motif of three identical modifications on three        consecutive nucleotides, and wherein the modifications are        2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoro modifications;

modifications on N_(b) differ from the modification on Y andmodifications on N_(b)′ differ from the modification on Y′; and

wherein the sense strand is conjugated to at least one ligand, whereinthe ligand is one or more GalNAc derivatives attached through a bivalentor trivalent branched linker.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a double strandedRNAi agent capable of inhibiting the expression of complement componentC5 in a cell, wherein said double stranded RNAi agent comprises a sensestrand complementary to an antisense strand, wherein said antisensestrand comprises a region complementary to part of an mRNA encodingcomplement component C5, wherein each strand is about 14 to about 30nucleotides in length, wherein said double stranded RNAi agent isrepresented by formula (III):

(III) sense:5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-(X X X)_(i)-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-(Z Z Z)_(j)-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′antisense:3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-(X′X′X′)_(k)-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-(Z′Z′Z′)_(l)-N_(a)′-n_(q)′ 5′

wherein:

i, j, k, and l are each independently 0 or 1;

each n_(p), n_(q), and n_(q)′, each of which may or may not be present,independently represents an overhang nucleotide;

-   -   p, q, and q′ are each independently 0-6;    -   n_(p)′>0 and at least one n_(p)′ is linked to a neighboring        nucleotide via a phosphorothioate linkage;

each N_(a) and N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-25 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof, each sequence comprising at leasttwo differently modified nucleotides;

each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-10 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof;

-   -   XXX, YYY, ZZZ, X′X′X′, Y′Y′Y′, and Z′Z′Z′ each independently        represent one motif of three identical modifications on three        consecutive nucleotides, and wherein the modifications are        2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoro modifications;

modifications on N_(b) differ from the modification on Y andmodifications on N_(b)′ differ from the modification on Y′;

wherein the sense strand comprises at least one phosphorothioatelinkage; and

-   -   wherein the sense strand is conjugated to at least one ligand,        wherein the ligand is one or more GalNAc derivatives attached        through a bivalent or trivalent branched linker.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a double stranded RNAiagent capable of inhibiting the expression of complement component C5 ina cell, wherein said double stranded RNAi agent comprises a sense strandcomplementary to an antisense strand, wherein said antisense strandcomprises a region complementary to part of an mRNA encoding complementcomponent C5, wherein each strand is about 14 to about 30 nucleotides inlength, wherein said double stranded RNAi agent is represented byformula (III):

(IIIa) sense: 5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-Y Y Y-Na-n_(q) 3′ antisense:3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(a)′-n_(q)′ 5′

wherein:

each n_(p), n_(q), and n_(q)′, each of which may or may not be present,independently represents an overhang nucleotide;

-   -   p, q, and q′ are each independently 0-6;    -   n_(p)′>0 and at least one n_(p)′ is linked to a neighboring        nucleotide via a phosphorothioate linkage;

each N_(a) and N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-25 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof, each sequence comprising at leasttwo differently modified nucleotides;

-   -   YYY and Y′Y′Y′ each independently represent one motif of three        identical modifications on three consecutive nucleotides, and        wherein the modifications are 2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoro        modifications;    -   wherein the sense strand comprises at least one phosphorothioate        linkage; and

wherein the sense strand is conjugated to at least one ligand, whereinthe ligand is one or more GalNAc derivatives attached through a bivalentor trivalent branched linker.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a double stranded RNAiagent for inhibiting expression of complement component C5, wherein thedouble stranded RNAi agent comprises a sense strand and an antisensestrand forming a double stranded region, wherein the sense strandcomprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 and theantisense strand comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differingby no more than 3 nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ IDNO:5, wherein substantially all of the nucleotides of the sense strandcomprise a modification selected from the group consisting of a2′-O-methyl modification and a 2′-fluoro modification, wherein the sensestrand comprises two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkages at the5′-terminus, wherein substantially all of the nucleotides of theantisense strand comprise a modification selected from the groupconsisting of a 2′-O-methyl modification and a 2′-fluoro modification,wherein the antisense strand comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkages at the 5′-terminus and two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkages at the 3′-terminus, and wherein the sensestrand is conjugated to one or more GalNAc derivatives attached througha branched bivalent or trivalent linker at the 3′-terminus.

In one embodiment, all of the nucleotides of the sense strand and all ofthe nucleotides of the antisense strand are modified nucleotides. Inanother embodiment, each strand has 19-30 nucleotides.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a cell containing a dsRNAagent of the invention.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a vector encoding at leastone strand of a dsRNA agent, wherein the dsRNA agent comprises a regionof complementarity to at least a part of an mRNA encoding complementcomponent C5, wherein the dsRNA is 30 base pairs or less in length, andwherein the dsRNA agent targets the mRNA for cleavage.

In one embodiment, the region of complementarity is at least 15nucleotides in length. In another embodiment, the region ofcomplementarity is 19 to 21 nucleotides in length. In anotherembodiment, each strand has 19-30 nucleotides.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a cell comprising a vectorof the invention.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a pharmaceuticalcomposition for inhibiting expression of a complement component C5 genecomprising a dsRNA agent of the invention.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent is administered in an unbufferedsolution.

In one embodiment, the unbuffered solution is saline or water.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent is administered with a buffersolution.

In one embodiment, the buffer solution comprises acetate, citrate,prolamine, carbonate, or phosphate or any combination thereof.

In another embodiment, the buffer solution is phosphate buffered saline(PBS).

In another aspect, the present invention provides a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a double stranded RNAi agent of the invention anda lipid formulation.

In one embodiment, the lipid formulation comprises a LNP. In anotherembodiment,the lipid formulation comprises a MC3.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a composition comprisingan antisense polynucleotide agent selected from the group consisting ofthe sequences listed in any one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 19, 18, 20, 21,and 23.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a compositioncomprising a sense polynucleotide agent selected from the groupconsisting of the sequences listed in any one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 19,18, 20, 21, and 23.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a modifiedantisense polynucleotide agent selected from the group consisting of theantisense sequences listed in any one of Tables 4, 6, 18, 19, 21, and23.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a modified sensepolynucleotide agent selected from the group consisting of the sensesequences listed in any one of Tables 4, 6, 18, 19, 21, and 23.

In one aspect the present invention provides methods of treating asubject having a disease or disorder that would benefit from reductionin complement component C5 expression. The methods include administeringto the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a dsRNA agentcomprising a sense strand and an antisense strand, wherein the sensestrand comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differing by no morethan 3 nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 and theantisense strand comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differingby no more than 3 nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ IDNO:5, thereby treating the subject.

In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of preventingat least one symptom in a subject having a disease or disorder thatwould benefit from reduction in complement component C5 expression. Themethods include administering to the subject a therapeutically effectiveamount of a dsRNA agent comprising a sense strand and an antisensestrand, wherein the sense strand comprises at least 15 contiguousnucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotides from the nucleotidesequence of SEQ ID NO:1 and the antisense strand comprises at least 15contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotides from thenucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:5, thereby preventing at least onesymptom in the subject having a disorder that would benefit fromreduction in C5 expression.

In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of treating asubject having a disease or disorder that would benefit from reductionin complement component C5 expression. The methods include administeringto the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a dsRNA agentcomprising a sense strand and an antisense strand, the antisense strandcomprising a region of complementarity which comprises at least 15contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotides from anyone of the antisense sequences listed in any one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6,18, 19, 20, 21, 23, thereby treating the subject.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides methods ofpreventing at least one symptom in a subject having a disease ordisorder that would benefit from reduction in complement component C5expression. The methods include administering to the subject aprophylactically effective amount of a dsRNA agent comprising a sensestrand and an antisense strand, the antisense strand comprising a regionof complementarity which comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotidesdiffering by no more than 3 nucleotides from any one of the antisensesequences listed in any one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and23, thereby preventing at least one symptom in the subject having adisorder that would benefit from reduction in C5 expression.

In one aspect, the present invention provides methods of treating asubject having a disease or disorder that would benefit from reductionin complement component C5 expression which include administering to thesubject a therapeutically effective amount of a double stranded RNAiagent, wherein the double stranded RNAi agent comprises a sense strandand an antisense strand forming a double stranded region, wherein thesense strand comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differing byno more than 3 nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1and the antisense strand comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotidesdiffering by no more than 3 nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence ofSEQ ID NO:5, wherein substantially all of the nucleotides of theantisense strand and substantially all of the nucleotides of the sensestrand are modified nucleotides and, wherein the sense strand isconjugated to one or more ligands at the 3′-terminus.

In one embodiment, all of the nucleotides of the sense strand and all ofthe nucleotides of the antisense strand are modified nucleotides.

In one embodiment, the administration is subcutaneous administration.

In one embodiment, substantially all of the nucleotides of the sensestrand are modified nucleotides selected from the group consisting of a2′-O-methyl modification, a 2′-fluoro modification and a 3′-terminal dTnucleotide. In another embodiment, substantially all of the nucleotidesof the antisense strand are modified nucleotides selected from the groupconsisting of a 2′-O-methyl modification, a 2′-fluoro modification and a3′-terminal dT nucleotide. In another embodiment, the modifiednucleotides are a short sequence of deoxy-thymine (dT) nucleotides. Inanother embodiment, the sense strand comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkages at the 5′-terminus. In one embodiment, theantisense strand comprises two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkagesat the 5′-terminus and two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkages atthe 3′-terminus. In yet another embodiment, the sense strand isconjugated to one or more GalNAc derivatives attached through a branchedbivalent or trivalent linker at the 3′-terminus.

In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of preventingat least one symptom in a subject having a disease or disorder thatwould benefit from reduction in complement component C5 expression whichinclude administering to the subject a prophylactically effective amountof a double stranded RNAi agent, wherein the double stranded RNAi agentcomprises a sense strand and an antisense strand forming a doublestranded region, wherein the sense strand comprises at least 15contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotides from thenucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 and the antisense strand comprises atleast 15 contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotidesfrom the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:5, wherein substantially allof the nucleotides of the antisense strand and substantially all of thenucleotides of the sense strand are modified nucleotides and, whereinthe sense strand is conjugated to a ligand at the 3′-terminus.

In one embodiment, all of the nucleotides of the sense strand and all ofthe nucleotides of the antisense strand are modified nucleotides.

In one embodiment, the administration is subcutaneous administration.

In one embodiment, substantially all of the nucleotides of the sensestrand are modified nucleotides selected from the group consisting of a2′-O-methyl modification, a 2′-fluoro modification and a 3′-terminal dTnucleotide. In another embodiment, substantially all of the nucleotidesof the antisense strand are modified nucleotides selected from the groupconsisting of a 2′-O-methyl modification, a 2′-fluoro modification and a3′-terminal dT nucleotide. In another embodiment, the modifiednucleotides are a short sequence of deoxy-thymine (dT) nucleotides. Inanother embodiment, the sense strand comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkages at the 5′-terminus. In one embodiment, theantisense strand comprises two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkagesat the 5′-terminus and two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkages atthe 3′-terminus. In yet another embodiment, the sense strand isconjugated to one or more GalNAc derivatives attached through a branchedbivalent or trivalent linker at the 3′-terminus.

In one aspect, the present invention provides methods of treating asubject having a disease or disorder that would benefit from reductionin complement component C5 expression. The methods include administeringto the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a dsRNA agentcomprising a sense strand complementary to an antisense strand, whereinthe antisense strand comprises a region complementary to part of an mRNAencoding C5, wherein each strand is about 14 to about 30 nucleotides inlength, wherein the double stranded RNAi agent is represented by formula(III):

(III) sense:5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-(X X X)_(i)-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-(Z Z Z)_(j)-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′antisense:3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-(X′X′X′)_(k)-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-(Z′Z′Z′)_(l)-N_(a)′-n_(q)′ 5′

wherein:

i, j, k, and 1 are each independently 0 or 1;

p, p′, q, and q′ are each independently 0-6;

each N_(a) and N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-25 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof, each sequence comprising at leasttwo differently modified nucleotides;

each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-10 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof;

each n_(p), n_(p)', n_(q), and n_(q)′, each of which may or may not bepresent, independently represents an overhang nucleotide;

XXX, YYY, ZZZ, X′X′X′, Y′Y′Y′, and Z′Z′Z′ each independently representone motif of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides;

modifications on N_(b) differ from the modification on Y andmodifications on N_(b)′ differ from the modification on Y′; and

wherein the sense strand is conjugated to at least one ligand, therebytreating the subject, thereby treating a subject having a disease ordisorder that would benefit from reduction in complement component C5expression.

In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of preventingat least one symptom in a subject having a disease or disorder thatwould benefit from reduction in complement component C5 expression. Themethods include administering to the subject a prophylacticallyeffective amount of a dsRNA agent comprising a sense strandcomplementary to an antisense strand, wherein the antisense strandcomprises a region complementary to part of an mRNA encoding C5, whereineach strand is about 14 to about 30 nucleotides in length, wherein thedouble stranded RNAi agent is represented by formula (III):

(III) sense:5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-(X X X)_(i)-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-(Z Z Z)_(j)-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′antisense:3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-(X′X′X′)_(k)-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-(Z′Z′Z′)_(l)-N_(a)′-n_(q)′ 5′

wherein:

i, j, k, and l are each independently 0 or 1;

p, p′, q, and q′ are each independently 0-6;

each N_(a) and N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-25 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof, each sequence comprising at leasttwo differently modified nucleotides;

each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-10 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof;

each n_(p), n_(p)′, n_(q), and n_(q)′, each of which may or may not bepresent, independently represents an overhang nucleotide;

XXX, YYY, ZZZ, X′X′X′, Y′Y′Y′, and Z′Z′Z′ each independently representone motif of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides;

modifications on N_(b) differ from the modification on Y andmodifications on N_(b)′ differ from the modification on Y′; and

wherein the sense strand is conjugated to at least one ligand, therebypreventing at least one symptom in the subject having a disorder thatwould benefit from reduction in C5 expression, thereby preventing atleast one symptom in a subject having a disease or disorder that wouldbenefit from reduction in complement component C5 expression.

In one embodiment, the administration of the dsRNA to the subject causesa decrease in intravascular hemolysis, a stabilization of hemoglobinlevels and/or a decrease in C5 protein accumulation.

In one embodiment, the disorder is a complement component C5-associateddisease. In one embodiment, the complement component C5-associateddisease is selected from the group consisting of paroxysmal nocturnalhemoglobinuria (PNH), atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), asthma,rheumatoid arthritis (RA); antiphospholipid antibody syndrome; lupusnephritis; ischemia-reperfusion injury; typical or infectious hemolyticuremic syndrome (tHUS); dense deposit disease (DDD); neuromyelitisoptica (NMO); multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN); multiple sclerosis(MS); macular degeneration (e.g., age-related macular degeneration(AMD)); hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets (HELLP)syndrome; thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP); spontaneous fetalloss; Pauci-immune vasculitis; epidermolysis bullosa; recurrent fetalloss; pre-eclampsia, traumatic brain injury, myasthenia gravis, coldagglutinin disease, dermatomyositis bullous pemphigoid, Shiga toxin E.coli-related hemolytic uremic syndrome, C3 nephropathy, anti-neutrophilcytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis, humoral and vasculartransplant rejection, graft dysfunction, myocardial infarction, anallogenic transplant, sepsis, Coronary artery disease, dermatomyositis,Graves' disease, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, systemicinflammatory response sepsis, septic shock, spinal cord injury,glomerulonephritis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, type I diabetes, psoriasis,pemphigus, autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), ITP, Goodpasturesyndrome, Degos disease, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), catastrophicAPS (CAPS), a cardiovascular disorder, myocarditis, a cerebrovasculardisorder, a peripheral vascular disorder, a renovascular disorder, amesenteric/enteric vascular disorder, vasculitis, Henoch-Schönleinpurpura nephritis, systemic lupus erythematosus-associated vasculitis,vasculitis associated with rheumatoid arthritis, immune complexvasculitis, Takayasu's disease, dilated cardiomyopathy, diabeticangiopathy, Kawasaki's disease (arteritis), venous gas embolus (VGE),and restenosis following stent placement, rotational atherectomy,membraneous nephropathy, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and percutaneoustransluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). In another embodiment, thecomplement component C5-associated disease is paroxysmal nocturnalhemoglobinuria (PNH). In yet another embodiment, the complementcomponent C5-associated disease is atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome(aHUS).

In one embodiment, the subject is human.

In another embodiment, the methods of the invention further includeadministering an anti-complement component C5 antibody, orantigen-binding fragment thereof, to the subject.

In one embodiment, the antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof,inhibits cleavage of complement component C5 into fragments C5a and C5b.In another embodiment, the anti-complement component C5 antibody iseculizumab.

In another embodiment, the methods of the invention further includeadministering a meningococcal vaccine to the subject.

In one embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject weekly at adose less than about 600 mg for 4 weeks followed by a fifth dose atabout one week later of less than about 900 mg, followed by a dose lessthan about 900 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In another embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject weeklyat a dose less than about 900 mg for 4 weeks followed by a fifth dose atabout one week later of less than about 1200 mg, followed by a dose lessthan about 1200 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In one embodiment, the subject is less than 18 years of age andeculizumab is administered to the subject weekly at a dose less thanabout 900 mg for 4 weeks followed by a fifth dose at about one weeklater of less than about 1200 mg, followed by a dose less than about1200 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In another embodiment, the subject is less than 18 years of age andeculizumab is administered to the subject weekly at a dose less thanabout 600 mg for 2 weeks followed by a third dose at about one weeklater of less than about 900 mg, followed by a dose less than about 900mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In another embodiment, the subject is less than 18 years of age andeculizumab is administered to the subject weekly at a dose less thanabout 600 mg for 2 weeks followed by a third dose at about one weeklater of less than about 600 mg, followed by a dose less than about 600mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In yet another embodiment, the subject is less than 18 years of age andeculizumab is administered to the subject weekly at a dose less thanabout 600 mg for 1 week followed by a second dose at about one weeklater of less than about 300 mg, followed by a dose less than about 300mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In one embodiment, the subject is less than 18 years of age andeculizumab is administered to the subject weekly at a dose less thanabout 300 mg for 1 week followed by a second dose at about one weeklater of less than about 300 mg, followed by a dose less than about 300mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In another embodiment, the methods of the invention further includeplasmapheresis or plasma exchange in the subject. In one suchembodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject at a dose lessthan about 600 mg or at a dose less than about 300 mg.

In a further embodiment, the methods of the invention further includeplasma infusion in the subject. In one such embodiment, eculizumab isadministered to the subject at a dose less than about 300 mg.

In one embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject at a doseof about 0.01 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg or about 0.5 mg/kg to about 15mg/kg. In another embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subjectat a dose of about 5 mg/kg to about 15 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject at a doseselected from the group consisting of 0.5 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 3mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 7 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, and 15 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject via anintravenous infusion.

In another embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subjectsubcutaneously.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered at a dose of about0.01 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg or about 0.5 mg/kg to about 50 mg/kg.

In another embodiment, dsRNA agent is administered at a dose of about 10mg/kg to about 30 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered at a dose selectedfrom the group consisting of 0.5 mg/kg 1 mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 3 mg/kg, 5mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, and 30 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered to the subject once aweek. In another embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered to thesubject twice a week. In another embodiment, the dsRNA agent isadministered to the subject twice a month.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered to the subjectsubcutaneously.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent and the eculizumab are administeredto the subject subcutaneously. In another embodiment, the dsRNA agentand the eculizumab are administered to the subject simultaneously.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered to the subject firstfor a period of time sufficient to reduce the levels of complementcomponent C5 in the subject, and eculizumab is administered subsequentlyat a dose less than about 600 mg.

In one embodiment, the levels of complement component C5 in the subjectare reduced by at least about 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%,70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, or 90%.

In one embodiment, eculizumab is administered at a dose of about 100-500mg.

In one embodiment, the methods of the invention further includemeasuring hemoglobin and/or LDH levels in the subject.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA is conjugated to a ligand.

In one embodiment, the ligand is conjugated to the 3′- end of the sensestrand of the dsRNA.

In one embodiment, the ligand is an N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc)derivative.

In one aspect, the present invention provides methods of inhibitingcomplement component C5 expression in a cell. The methods includecontacting the cell with a dsRNA agent comprising a sense strand and anantisense strand, wherein the sense strand comprises at least 15contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotides from thenucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 and the antisense strand comprises atleast 15 contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotidesfrom the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:5; and maintaining the cellproduced in step (a) for a time sufficient to obtain degradation of themRNA transcript of a C5 gene, thereby inhibiting expression of the C5gene in the cell.

In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of inhibitingcomplement component C5 expression in a cell. The methods includecontacting the cell with a dsRNA agent comprising a sense strand and anantisense strand, the antisense strand comprising a region ofcomplementarity which comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotidesdiffering by no more than 3 nucleotides from any one of the antisensesequences listed in any one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and23; and maintaining the cell produced in step (a) for a time sufficientto obtain degradation of the mRNA transcript of a C5 gene, therebyinhibiting expression of the C5 gene in the cell.

In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of inhibitingcomplement component C5 expression in a cell, which includes contactingthe cell with a dsRNA agent comprising a sense strand and an antisensestrand comprising a region of complementarity, the sense strandcomprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 and theantisense strand comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differingby no more than 3 nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ IDNO:5, wherein substantially all of the nucleotides of the antisensestrand and substantially all of the nucleotides of the sense strand aremodified nucleotides and, wherein the sense strand is conjugated to oneor more ligands at the 3′-terminus; and maintaining the cell produced inthe first step for a time sufficient to obtain degradation of the mRNAtranscript of a C5 gene, thereby inhibiting expression of the C5 gene inthe cell.

In one embodiment, all of the nucleotides of the sense strand and all ofthe nucleotides of the antisense strand are modified nucleotides.

In one embodiment, substantially all of the nucleotides of the sensestrand are modified nucleotides selected from the group consisting of a2′-O-methyl modification, a 2′-fluoro modification and a 3′-terminal dTnucleotide. In another embodiment, substantially all of the nucleotidesof the antisense strand are modified nucleotides selected from the groupconsisting of a 2′-O-methyl modification, a 2′-fluoro modification and a3′-terminal dT nucleotide. In another embodiment, the modifiednucleotides are a short sequence of deoxy-thymine (dT) nucleotides. Inanother embodiment, the sense strand comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkages at the 5′-terminus. In one embodiment, theantisense strand comprises two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkagesat the 5′-terminus and two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkages atthe 3′-terminus. In yet another embodiment, the sense strand isconjugated to one or more GalNAc derivatives attached through a branchedbivalent or trivalent linker at the 3′-terminus.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides methods ofinhibiting complement component C5 expression in a cell. The methodsinclude contacting the cell with a dsRNA agent comprising a sense strandcomplementary to an antisense strand, wherein the antisense strandcomprises a region complementary to part of an mRNA encoding C5, whereineach strand is about 14 to about 30 nucleotides in length, wherein thedouble stranded RNAi agent is represented by formula (III):

(III) sense:5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-(X X X)_(i)-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-(Z Z Z)_(j)-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′antisense:3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-(X′X′X′)_(k)-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-(Z′Z′Z′)_(l)-N_(a)′-n_(q)′ 5′

wherein:

i, j, k, and l are each independently 0 or 1;

p, p′, q, and q′ are each independently 0-6;

each N_(a) and N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-25 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof, each sequence comprising at leasttwo differently modified nucleotides;

each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-10 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof; each n_(p), n_(p)′, n_(q), andn_(q)′, each of which may or may not be present, independentlyrepresents an overhang nucleotide;

XXX, YYY, ZZZ, X′X′X′, Y′Y′Y′, and Z′Z′Z′ each independently representone motif of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides;

modifications on N_(b) differ from the modification on Y andmodifications on N_(b)′ differ from the modification on Y′; and

wherein the sense strand is conjugated to at least one ligand; andmaintaining the cell produced in step (a) for a time sufficient toobtain degradation of the mRNA transcript of a C5 gene, therebyinhibiting expression of the C5 gene in the cell.

In one embodiment, the cell is within a subject.

In one embodiment, the subject is a human.

In one embodiment, the human subject suffers from a complement componentC5-associated disease.

In one embodiment, the complement component C5-associated disease isselected from the group consisting of paroxysmal nocturnalhemoglobinuria (PNH), atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), asthma,rheumatoid arthritis (RA); antiphospholipid antibody syndrome; lupusnephritis; ischemia-reperfusion injury; typical or infectious hemolyticuremic syndrome (tHUS); dense deposit disease (DDD); neuromyelitisoptica (NMO); multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN); multiple sclerosis(MS); macular degeneration (e.g., age-related macular degeneration(AMD)); hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets (HELLP)syndrome; thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP); spontaneous fetalloss; Pauci-immune vasculitis; epidermolysis bullosa; recurrent fetalloss; pre-eclampsia, traumatic brain injury, myasthenia gravis, coldagglutinin disease, dermatomyositis bullous pemphigoid, Shiga toxin E.coli-related hemolytic uremic syndrome, C3 nephropathy, anti-neutrophilcytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis, humoral and vasculartransplant rejection, graft dysfunction, myocardial infarction, anallogenic transplant, sepsis, Coronary artery disease, dermatomyositis,Graves' disease, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, systemicinflammatory response sepsis, septic shock, spinal cord injury,glomerulonephritis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, type I diabetes, psoriasis,pemphigus, autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), ITP, Goodpasturesyndrome, Degos disease, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), catastrophicAPS (CAPS), a cardiovascular disorder, myocarditis, a cerebrovasculardisorder, a peripheral vascular disorder, a renovascular disorder, amesenteric/enteric vascular disorder, vasculitis, Henoch-Schönleinpurpura nephritis, systemic lupus erythematosus-associated vasculitis,vasculitis associated with rheumatoid arthritis, immune complexvasculitis, Takayasu's disease, dilated cardiomyopathy, diabeticangiopathy, Kawasaki's disease (arteritis), venous gas embolus (VGE),and restenosis following stent placement, rotational atherectomy,membraneous nephropathy, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and percutaneoustransluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). In another embodiment, thecomplement component C5-associated disease is paroxysmal nocturnalhemoglobinuria (PNH). In another embodiment, the complement componentC5-associated disease is atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS).

In one embodiment, the methods further include contacting the cell withan anti-complement component C5 antibody, or antigen-binding fragmentthereof.

In one embodiment, the antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof,inhibits cleavage of complement component C5 into fragments C5a and C5b.

In one embodiment, the anti-complement component C5 antibody, orantigen-binding fragment thereof, is eculizumab.

In one embodiment, the methods further include contacting the cell witha meningococcal vaccine.

In one embodiment, the cell is contacted with eculizumab weekly at adose less than about 600 mg for 4 weeks followed by a fifth dose atabout one week later of less than about 900 mg, followed by a dose lessthan about 900 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In another embodiment, the cell is contacted with eculizumab weekly at adose less than about 900 mg for 4 weeks followed by a fifth dose atabout one week later of less than about 1200 mg, followed by a dose lessthan about 1200 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In another embodiment, the cell is contacted with eculizumab weekly at adose less than about 900 mg for 4 weeks followed by a fifth dose atabout one week later of less than about 1200 mg, followed by a dose lessthan about 1200 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In yet another embodiment, the cell is contacted with eculizumab weeklyat a dose less than about 600 mg for 2 weeks followed by a third dose atabout one week later of less than about 900 mg, followed by a dose lessthan about 900 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In one embodiment, the cell is contacted with eculizumab weekly at adose less than about 600 mg for 2 weeks followed by a third dose atabout one week later of less than about 600 mg, followed by a dose lessthan about 600 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In another embodiment, the cell is contacted with eculizumab weekly at adose less than about 600 mg for 1 week followed by a second dose atabout one week later of less than about 300 mg, followed by a dose lessthan about 300 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In one embodiment, the cell is contacted with eculizumab weekly at adose less than about 300 mg for 1 week followed by a second dose atabout one week later of less than about 300 mg, followed by a dose lessthan about 300 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In one embodiment, the cell is within a subject.

In one embodiment, the methods of the invention further includeplasmapheresis or plasma exchange in the subject. In one embodiment,eculizumab is administered to the subject at a dose less than about 600mg. In another embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject ata dose less than about 300 mg.

In one embodiment, the methods of the invention further include plasmainfusion in the subject. In one embodiment, eculizumab is administeredto the subject at a dose less than about 300 mg.

In one embodiment, the cell is contacted with eculizumab at a dose ofabout 0.01 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg or about 0.5 mg/kg to about 15 mg/kg.

In another embodiment, the cell is contacted with eculizumab at a doseof about 5 mg/kg to about 15 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, the cell is contacted with eculizumab at a doseselected from the group consisting of 0.5 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 3mg/kg, 5mg/kg, 7 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, and 15 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject via anintravenous infusion. In another embodiment, eculizumab is administeredto the subject subcutaneously.

In one embodiment, the cell is contacted with the dsRNA agent at a doseof about 0.01 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg or about 0.5 mg/kg to about 50mg/kg.

In another embodiment, the cell is contacted with the dsRNA agent at adose of about 10 mg/kg to about 30 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, the cell is contacted with the dsRNA agent at a doseselected from the group consisting of 0.5 mg/kg 1 mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 3mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, and 30 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, the cell is contacted with the dsRNA agent once aweek. In another embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered to thesubject twice a week. In another embodiment, the cell is contacted withthe dsRNA agent twice a month.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered to the subjectsubcutaneously.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent and the eculizumab are administeredto the subject subcutaneously. In another embodiment, the dsRNA agentand the eculizumab are administered to the subject simultaneously.

In one embodiment, the cell is contacted with the dsRNA agent and theeculizumab simultaneously.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered to the subject firstfor a period of time sufficient to reduce the levels of complementcomponent C5 in the subject, and eculizumab is administered subsequentlyat a dose less than about 600 mg.

In one embodiment, the levels of complement component C5 in the subjectare reduced by at least about 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%,70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, or 90%.

In one embodiment, eculizumab is administered at a dose of about 100-500mg.

In one embodiment, the cell is contacted with the dsRNA agent first fora period of time sufficient to reduce the levels of complement componentC5 in the cell, and the cell is subsequrntly contacted with eculizumabat a dose less than about 600 mg.

In one embodiment, the levels of complement component C5 in the cell arereduced by at least about 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%,75%, 80%, 85%, or 90%.

In one embodiment, the cell is contacted with eculizumab at a dose ofabout 100-500 mg.

In one aspect, the present invention provides methods of inhibiting theexpression of C5 in a subject. The methods include administering to thesubject a therapeutically effective amount of a dsRNA agent comprising asense strand and an antisense strand, wherein the sense strand comprisesat least 15 contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 and theantisense strand comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differingby no more than 3 nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ IDNO:5, thereby inhibiting the expression of C5 in the subject.

In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of inhibitingthe expression of C5 in a subject. The methods include administering tothe subject a therapeutically effective amount of a dsRNA agentcomprising a sense strand and an antisense strand, the antisense strandcomprising a region of complementarity which comprises at least 15contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotides from anyone of the antisense sequences listed in any one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6,18, 19, 20, 21, and 23, thereby inhibiting the expression of C5 in thesubject.

In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of inhibitingcomplement component C5 expression in a subject which includeadministering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of adsRNA agent comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand forming adouble stranded region, wherein the sense strand comprises at least 15contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotides from thenucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 and the antisense strand comprises atleast 15 contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotidesfrom the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:5, wherein substantially allof the nucleotides of the antisense strand and substantially all of thenucleotides of the sense strand are modified nucleotides and, whereinthe sense strand is conjugated to one or more ligands at the3′-terminus, thereby inhibiting expression of the C5 gene in thesubject.

In one embodiment, all of the nucleotides of the sense strand and all ofthe nucleotides of the antisense strand are modified nucleotides.

In one embodiment, the administration is subcutaneous administration. Inone embodiment, substantially all of the nucleotides of the sense strandare modified nucleotides selected from the group consisting of a2′-O-methyl modification, a 2′-fluoro modification and a 3′-terminal dTnucleotide. In another embodiment, substantially all of the nucleotidesof the antisense strand are modified nucleotides selected from the groupconsisting of a 2′-O-methyl modification, a 2′-fluoro modification and a3′-terminal dT nucleotide. In another embodiment, the modifiednucleotides are a short sequence of deoxy-thymine (dT) nucleotides. Inanother embodiment, the sense strand comprises two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkages at the 5′-terminus. In one embodiment, theantisense strand comprises two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkagesat the 5′-terminus and two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkages atthe 3′-terminus. In yet another embodiment, the sense strand isconjugated to one or more GalNAc derivatives attached through a branchedbivalent or trivalent linker at the 3′-terminus.

In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of inhibitingthe expression of C5 in a subject. The methods include administering tothe subject a therapeutically effective amount of a dsRNA agentcomprising a sense strand complementary to an antisense strand, whereinthe antisense strand comprises a region complementary to part of an mRNAencoding C5, wherein each strand is about 14 to about 30 nucleotides inlength, wherein the double stranded RNAi agent is represented by formula(III):

(III) sense:5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-(X X X)_(i)-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-(Z Z Z)_(j)-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′antisense:3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-(X′X′X′)_(k)-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-(Z′Z′Z′)_(l)-N_(a)′-n_(q)′ 5′

wherein:

i, j, k, and l are each independently 0 or 1;

p, p′, q, and q′ are each independently 0-6;

each N_(a) and N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-25 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof, each sequence comprising at leasttwo differently modified nucleotides;

each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-10 nucleotides which are either modified orunmodified or combinations thereof;

each n_(p), n_(p)′, n_(q), and n_(q)′, each of which may or may not bepresent, independently represents an overhang nucleotide;

XXX, YYY, ZZZ, X′X′X′, Y′Y′Y′, and Z′Z′Z′ each independently representone motif of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides;

modifications on N_(b) differ from the modification on Y andmodifications on N_(b)′ differ from the modification on Y′; and

wherein the sense strand is conjugated to at least one ligand, therebyinhibiting the expression of C5 in the subject.

In one embodiment, the methods further include administration of ananti-complement component C5 antibody, or antigen-binding fragmentthereof, to the subject.

In one embodiment, the anti-complement component C5 antibody, orantigen-binding fragment thereof, is eculizumab.

In one embodiment, the antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof,inhibits cleavage of complement component C5 into fragments C5a and C5b.

In one embodiment, the methods of the invention further includeadministering a meningococcal vaccine to the subject.

In one embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject weekly at adose less than about 600 mg for 4 weeks followed by a fifth dose atabout one week later of less than about 900 mg, followed by a dose lessthan about 900 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In another embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject weeklyat a dose less than about 900 mg for 4 weeks followed by a fifth dose atabout one week later of less than about 1200 mg, followed by a dose lessthan about 1200 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In one embodiment, the subject is less than 18 years of age andeculizumab is administered to the subject weekly at a dose less thanabout 900 mg for 4 weeks followed by a fifth dose at about one weeklater of less than about 1200 mg, followed by a dose less than about1200 mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In another embodiment, the subject is less than 18 years of age andeculizumab is administered to the subject weekly at a dose less thanabout 600 mg for 2 weeks followed by a third dose at about one weeklater of less than about 900 mg, followed by a dose less than about 900mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In one embodiment, the subject is less than 18 years of age andeculizumab is administered to the subject weekly at a dose less thanabout 600 mg for 2 weeks followed by a third dose at about one weeklater of less than about 600 mg, followed by a dose less than about 600mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In another embodiment, the subject is less than 18 years of age andeculizumab is administered to the subject weekly at a dose less thanabout 600 mg for 1 week followed by a second dose at about one weeklater of less than about 300 mg, followed by a dose less than about 300mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In yet another embodiment, the subject is less than 18 years of age andeculizumab is administered to the subject weekly at a dose less thanabout 300 mg for 1 week followed by a second dose at about one weeklater of less than about 300 mg, followed by a dose less than about 300mg about every two weeks thereafter.

In one embodiment, the methods further includeplasmapheresis or plasmaexchange in the subject. In one embodiment, eculizumab is administeredto the subject at a dose less than about 600 mg. In another embodiment,eculizumab is administered to the subject at a dose less than about 300mg.

In one embodiment, the methods further include plasma infusion in thesubject. In one embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject ata dose less than about 300 mg.

In one embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject at a doseof about 0.01 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg or about 0.5 mg/kg to about 15mg/kg. In another embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subjectat a dose of about 5 mg/kg to about 15 mg/kg.

In another embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject at adose selected from the group consisting of 0.5 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg, 1.5mg/kg, 3 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 7 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, and 30 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, eculizumab is administered to the subject via anintravenous infusion. In another embodiment, eculizumab is administeredto the subject subcutaneously.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered at a dose of about0.01 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg or about 0.5 mg/kg to about 15 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered at a dose of about 10mg/kg to about 30 mg/kg. In another embodiment,the dsRNA agent isadministered at a dose selected from the group consisting of 0.5 mg/kg 1mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 3 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, and 30 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered to the subject once aweek. In another embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered to thesubject twice a week. In another embodiment, the dsRNA agent isadministered to the subject twice a month.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered to the subjectsubcutaneously.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent and the eculizumab are administeredto the subject subcutaneously. In another embodiment, the dsRNA agentand the eculizumab are administered to the subject simultaneously.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is administered to the subject firstfor a period of time sufficient to reduce the levels of complementcomponent C5 in the subject, and eculizumab is administered subsequentlyat a dose less than about 600 mg.

In one embodiment, the levels of complement component C5 in the subjectare reduced by at least about 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%,70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, or 90%.

In one embodiment, eculizumab is administered at a dose of about 100-500mg.

In one embodiment, the dsRNA agent is conjugated to a ligand.

In one embodiment, the ligand is conjugated to the 3′- end of the sensestrand of the dsRNA agent.

In one embodiment, the ligand is an N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc)derivative.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic of the three complement pathways: alternattive,classical and lectin.

FIG. 2 is a graph showing the percentage of complement component C5remaining in C57BL/6 mice following a single 10 mg/kg dose of theindicated iRNAs.

FIG. 3 is a graph showing the percentage of complement component C5remaining in C57BL/6 mice following a single 10 mg/kg dose of theindicated iRNAs.

FIG. 4 is a graph showing the percentage of complement component C5remaining in C57BL/6 mice 48 hours after a single 10 mg/kg dose of theindicated iRNAs.

FIG. 5A is a graph showing the percentage of hemolysis remaining at days4 and 7 in rats after a single 2.5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, or 25 mg/kgsubcutaneous dose of of AD-58642.

FIG. 5B is a Western blot showing the amount of complement component C5remaining at day 7 in rats after a single 2.5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, or 25mg/kg subcutaneous dose of AD-58642.

FIG. 6A is a graph showing the percentage of complement component C5remaining in C57BL/6 mice 5 days after a single 1.25 mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg, 5mg/kg, 10 mg/kg or 25 mg/kg dose of AD-58642.

FIG. 6B is a graph showing the percentage of complement component C5remaining in C57BL/6 mice 5 days after a single 1.25 mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg, 5mg/kg, 10 mg/kg or 25 mg/kg dose of AD-58642.

FIG. 7A is a graph showing the percentage of hemolysis remaining at day5 in C57BL/6 mice after a single 1.25 mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 10mg/kg or 25 mg/kg dose of AD-58642.

FIG. 7B is a graph showing the percentage of hemolysis remaining at day5 in C57BL/6 mice after a single 1.25 mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 10mg/kg or 25 mg/kg dose of AD-58642.

FIG. 8 is a Western blot showing the amount of complement component C5remaining at day 5 in C57BL/6 mice after a single 1.25 mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg,5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg or 25 mg/kg dose of AD-58642.

FIG. 9 is a graph showing the amount of complement component C5 proteinremaining at days 5 and 9 in mouse serum after a single 0.625 mg/kg,1.25 mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg, 5.0 mg/kg, or 10 mg/kg dose of AD-58641. Thelower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) of the assay is shown as a dashedline.

FIG. 10 is a is a graph showing the amount of complement component C5protein remaining at day 8 in mouse serum after a 0.625 mg/kg, 1.25mg/kg, or 2.5 mg/kg dose of AD-58641 at days 0, 1, 2, and 3. The lowerlimit of quantitation (LLOQ) of the assay is shown as a dashed line.

FIG. 11A is graph demonstrating the efficacy and cumulative effect ofrepeat administration of compound AD-58641 in rats and depicts thehemolytic activity remaining in the serum of rats on days 0, 4, 7, 11,14, 18, 25, and 32 after repeat administration at 2.5 mg/kg/dose or 5.0mg/kg/dose, q2w×3 (twice a week for 3 weeks).

FIG. 11B is a Western blot demonstrating the efficacy and cumulativeeffect of repeat administration of compound AD-58641 in rats and depictsthe amount of complement component C5 protein remaining in the serum ofthe animals.

FIG. 12 is a graph showing the amount of complement component C5 proteinin cynomolgus macaque serum at various time points before, during andafter two rounds of subcutaneous dosing at 2.5 mg/kg or 5 mg/kg ofAD-58641 every third day for eight doses. C5 protein levels werenormalized to the average of the three pre-dose samples.

FIG. 13 is a graph showing the percentage of hemolysis remaining incynomolgus macaque serum at various time points before, during and aftertwo rounds of subcutaneous dosing at 2.5 mg/kg or 5 mg/kg of AD-58641every third day for eight doses. Percent hemolysis was calculatedrelative to maximal hemolysis and to background hemolysis in controlsamples.

FIG. 14 is a graph showing the percentage of complement component C5protein remaining at day 5 in the serum of C57BL/6 mice following asingle 1 mg/kg dose of the indicated iRNAs.

FIG. 15 is a graph showing the percentage of complement component C5protein remaining at day 5 in the serum of C57BL/6 mice following asingle 0.25 mg/kg, 0.5 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg, or 2.0 mg/kg dose of theindicated iRNAs.

FIG. 16 is a graph showing the percentage of complement component C5protein remaining in the serum of C57BL/6 mice at days 6, 13, 20, 27,and 34 following a single 1 mg/kg dose of the indicated iRNAs.

FIG. 17 is a graph showing the percentage of hemolysis remaining in ratserum at various time points following administration of a 5 mg/kg doseof the indicated compounds at days 0, 4, and 7.

FIG. 18A shows the nucleotide sequence of Homo sapiens ComplementComponent 5 (C5) (SEQ ID NO:1); FIG. 18B shows the nucleotide sequenceof Macaca mulatta Complement Component 5 (C5) (SEQ ID NO:2); FIG. 18Cshows the nucleotide sequence of Mus musculus Complement Component 5(C5) (SEQ ID NO:3); FIG. 18D shows the nucleotide sequence of Rattusnorvegicus Complement Component 5 (C5) (SEQ ID NO:4); FIG. 18E shows thereverse complement of SEQ ID NO:1 (SEQ ID NO:5); FIG. 18F shows thereverse complement of SEQ ID NO:2 (SEQ ID NO:6); FIG. 18G shows thereverse complement of SEQ ID NO:3 (SEQ ID NO:7); and FIG. 18H shows thereverse complement of SEQ ID NO:4 (SEQ ID NO:8).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides iRNA agents which effect the RNA-inducedsilencing complex (RISC)-mediated cleavage of RNA transcripts of acomplement component C5 gene.

The iRNAs of the invention include an RNA strand (the antisense strand)having a region which is about 30 nucleotides or less in length, e.g.,15-30, 15-29, 15-28, 15-27, 15-26, 15-25, 15-24, 15-23, 15-22, 15-21,15-20, 15-19, 15-18, 15-17, 18-30, 18-29, 18-28, 18-27, 18-26, 18-25,18-24, 18-23, 18-22, 18-21, 18-20, 19-30, 19-29, 19-28, 19-27, 19-26,19-25, 19-24, 19-23, 19-22, 19-21, 19-20, 20-30, 20-29, 20-28, 20-27,20-26, 20-25, 20-24,20-23, 20-22, 20-21, 21-30, 21-29, 21-28, 21-27,21-26, 21-25, 21-24, 21-23, or 21-22 nucleotides in length, which regionis substantially complementary to at least part of an mRNA transcript ofa C5 gene. The use of these iRNAs enables the targeted degradation ofmRNAs of a C5 gene in mammals. Very low dosages of C5 iRNAs, inparticular, can specifically and efficiently mediate RNA interference(RNAi), resulting in significant inhibition of expression of a C5 gene.The present inventors have demonstrated that iRNAs targeting C5 canmediate RNAi in vitro and in vivo, resulting in significant inhibitionof expression of a C5 gene. Thus, methods and compositions includingthese iRNAs are useful for treating a subject who would benefit by areduction in the levels and/or activity of a C5 protein, such as asubject having a complement component C5-associated disease, such asparoxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH).

The present invention also provides methods and combination therapiesfor treating a subject having a disorder that would benefit frominhibiting or reducing the expression of a C5 gene, e.g., a complementcomponent C5-associated disease, such as paroxysmal nocturnalhemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) usingiRNA compositions which effect the RNA-induced silencing complex(RISC)-mediated cleavage of RNA transcripts of a complement component C5gene.

The present invention also provides methods for preventing at least onesymptom, e.g., hemolysis, in a subject having a disorder that wouldbenefit from inhibiting or reducing the expression of a C5 gene, e.g., acomplement component C5-associated disease, such as paroxysmal nocturnalhemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS). Thepresent invention further provides iRNA compositions which effect theRNA-induced silencing complex (RISC)-mediated cleavage of RNAtranscripts of a complement component C5 gene. The C5 gene may be withina cell, e.g., a cell within a subject, such as a human.

The combination therapies of the present invention include administeringto a subject having a complement component C5-associated disease, anRNAi agent of the invention and an additional therapeutic, such asanti-complement component C5 antibody, or antigen-binding fragmentthereof, e.g., eculizumab. The combination therapies of the inventionreduce C5 levels in the subject (e.g., by about 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%,55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or about 99%) by targetingC5 mRNA with an iRNA agent of the invention and, accordingly, allow thetherapeutically (or prophylactically) effective amount of eculizumabrequired to treat the subject to be reduced, thereby decreasing thecosts of treatment and permitting easier and more convenient ways ofadministering eculizumab, such as subcutaneous administration.

The following detailed description discloses how to make and usecompositions containing iRNAs to inhibit the expression of a C5 gene, aswell as compositions, uses, and methods for treating subjects havingdiseases and disorders that would benefit from inhibition and/orreduction of the expression of this gene.

I. Definitions

In order that the present invention may be more readily understood,certain terms are first defined. In addition, it should be noted thatwhenever a value or range of values of a parameter are recited, it isintended that values and ranges intermediate to the recited values arealso intended to be part of this invention.

The articles “a” and “an” are used herein to refer to one or to morethan one (i.e., to at least one) of the grammatical object of thearticle. By way of example, “an element” means one element or more thanone element, e.g., a plurality of elements.

The term “including” is used herein to mean, and is used interchangeablywith, the phrase “including but not limited to”.

The term “or” is used herein to mean, and is used interchangeably with,the term “and/or,” unless context clearly indicates otherwise.

As used herein, “complement component C5,” used interchangeably with theterm “C5” refers to the well-known gene and polypeptide, also known inthe art as CPAMD4, C3 and PZP-like alpha-2-macroglobulindomain-containing protein, anaphtlatoxin C5a analog, hemolyticcomplement (Hc), and complement C5. The sequence of a human C5 mRNAtranscript can be found at, for example, GenBank Accession No.GI:38016946 (NM_001735.2; SEQ ID NO:1). The sequence of rhesus C5 mRNAcan be found at, for example, GenBank Accession No. GI:297270262(XM_001095750.2; SEQ ID NO:2). The sequence of mouse C5 mRNA can befound at, for example, GenBank Accession No. GI:291575171 (NM_010406.2;SEQ ID NO:3). The sequence of rat C5 mRNA can be found at, for example,GenBank Accession No. GI:392346248 (XM_345342.4; SEQ ID NO:4).Additional examples of C5 mRNA sequences are readily available usingpublicly available databases, e.g., GenBank.

The term“C5,” as used herein, also refers to naturally occurring DNAsequence variations of the C5 gene, such as a single nucleotidepolymorphism in the C5 gene. Numerous SNPs within the C5 gene have beenidentified and may be found at, for example, NCBI dbSNP (see, e.g.,ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/snp). Non-limiting examples of SNPs within the C5 genemay be found at, NCBI dbSNP Accession Nos. rs121909588 and rs121909587.

As used herein, “target sequence” refers to a contiguous portion of thenucleotide sequence of an mRNA molecule formed during the transcriptionof a C5 gene, including mRNA that is a product of RNA processing of aprimary transcription product. In one embodiment, the target portion ofthe sequence will be at least long enough to serve as a substrate foriRNA-directed cleavage at or near that portion of the nucleotidesequence of an mRNA molecule formed during the transcription of a C5gene.

The target sequence may be from about 9-36 nucleotides in length, e.g.,about 15-30 nucleotides in length. For example, the target sequence canbe from about 15-30 nucleotides, 15-29, 15-28, 15-27, 15-26, 15-25,15-24, 15-23, 15-22, 15-21, 15-20, 15-19, 15-18, 15-17, 18-30, 18-29,18-28, 18-27, 18-26, 18-25, 18-24, 18-23, 18-22, 18-21, 18-20, 19-30,19-29, 19-28, 19-27, 19-26, 19-25, 19-24, 19-23, 19-22, 19-21, 19-20,20-30, 20-29, 20-28, 20-27, 20-26, 20-25, 20-24,20-23, 20-22, 20-21,21-30, 21-29, 21-28, 21-27, 21-26, 21-25, 21-24, 21-23, or 21-22nucleotides in length. Ranges and lengths intermediate to the aboverecited ranges and lengths are also contemplated to be part of theinvention.

As used herein, the term “strand comprising a sequence” refers to anoligonucleotide comprising a chain of nucleotides that is described bythe sequence referred to using the standard nucleotide nomenclature.

“G,” “C,” “A,” “T” and “U” each generally stand for a nucleotide thatcontains guanine, cytosine, adenine, thymidine and uracil as a base,respectively. However, it will be understood that the term“ribonucleotide” or “nucleotide” can also refer to a modifiednucleotide, as further detailed below, or a surrogate replacement moiety(see, e.g., Table 2). The skilled person is well aware that guanine,cytosine, adenine, and uracil can be replaced by other moieties withoutsubstantially altering the base pairing properties of an oligonucleotidecomprising a nucleotide bearing such replacement moiety. For example,without limitation, a nucleotide comprising inosine as its base can basepair with nucleotides containing adenine, cytosine, or uracil. Hence,nucleotides containing uracil, guanine, or adenine can be replaced inthe nucleotide sequences of dsRNA featured in the invention by anucleotide containing, for example, inosine. In another example, adenineand cytosine anywhere in the oligonucleotide can be replaced withguanine and uracil, respectively to form G-U Wobble base pairing withthe target mRNA. Sequences containing such replacement moieties aresuitable for the compositions and methods featured in the invention.

The terms “iRNA”, “RNAi agent,” “iRNA agent,”, “RNA interference agent”as used interchangeably herein, refer to an agent that contains RNA asthat term is defined herein, and which mediates the targeted cleavage ofan RNA transcript via an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) pathway.iRNA directs the sequence-specific degradation of mRNA through a processknown as RNA interference (RNAi). The iRNA modulates, e.g., inhibits,the expression of C5 in a cell, e.g., a cell within a subject, such as amammalian subject.

In one embodiment, an RNAi agent of the invention includes a singlestranded RNA that interacts with a target RNA sequence, e.g., a C5target mRNA sequence, to direct the cleavage of the target RNA. Withoutwishing to be bound by theory it is believed that long double strandedRNA introduced into cells is broken down into siRNA by a Type IIIendonuclease known as Dicer (Sharp et al. (2001) Genes Dev. 15:485).Dicer, a ribonuclease-III-like enzyme, processes the dsRNA into 19-23base pair short interfering RNAs with characteristic two base 3′overhangs (Bernstein, et al., (2001) Nature 409:363). The siRNAs arethen incorporated into an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) where oneor more helicases unwind the siRNA duplex, enabling the complementaryantisense strand to guide target recognition (Nykanen, et al., (2001)Cell 107:309). Upon binding to the appropriate target mRNA, one or moreendonucleases within the RISC cleave the target to induce silencing(Elbashir, et al., (2001) Genes Dev. 15:188). Thus, in one aspect theinvention relates to a single stranded RNA (siRNA) generated within acell and which promotes the formation of a RISC complex to effectsilencing of the target gene, i.e., a C5 gene. Accordingly, the term“siRNA” is also used herein to refer to an RNAi as described above.

In another embodiment, the RNAi agent may be a single-stranded siRNAthat is introduced into a cell or organism to inhibit a target mRNA.Single-stranded RNAi agents bind to the RISC endonuclease, Argonaute 2,which then cleaves the target mRNA. The single-stranded siRNAs aregenerally 15-30 nucleotides and are chemically modified. The design andtesting of single-stranded siRNAs are described in U.S. Pat. No.8,101,348 and in Lima et al., (2012) Cell 150: 883-894, the entirecontents of each of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.Any of the antisense nucleotide sequences described herein may be usedas a single-stranded siRNA as described herein or as chemically modifiedby the methods described in Lima et al., (2012) Cell 150; :883-894.

In another embodiment, an “iRNA” for use in the compositions, uses, andmethods of the invention is a double-stranded RNA and is referred toherein as a “double stranded RNAi agent,” “double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)molecule,” “dsRNA agent,” or “dsRNA”. The term “dsRNA”, refers to acomplex of ribonucleic acid molecules, having a duplex structurecomprising two anti-parallel and substantially complementary nucleicacid strands, referred to as having “sense” and “antisense” orientationswith respect to a target RNA, i.e., a C5 gene. In some embodiments ofthe invention, a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) triggers the degradation ofa target RNA, e.g., an mRNA, through a post-transcriptionalgene-silencing mechanism referred to herein as RNA interference or RNAi.

In general, the majority of nucleotides of each strand of a dsRNAmolecule are ribonucleotides, but as described in detail herein, each orboth strands can also include one or more non-ribonucleotides, e.g., adeoxyribonucleotide and/or a modified nucleotide. In addition, as usedin this specification, an “RNAi agent” may include ribonucleotides withchemical modifications; an RNAi agent may include substantialmodifications at multiple nucleotides. Such modifications may includeall types of modifications disclosed herein or known in the art. Anysuch modifications, as used in a siRNA type molecule, are encompassed by“RNAi agent” for the purposes of this specification and claims.

The duplex region may be of any length that permits specific degradationof a desired target RNA through a RISC pathway, and may range from about9 to 36 base pairs in length, e.g., about 15-30 base pairs in length,for example, about 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21,22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, or 36 base pairsin length, such as about 15-30, 15-29, 15-28, 15-27, 15-26, 15-25,15-24, 15-23, 15-22, 15-21, 15-20, 15-19, 15-18, 15-17, 18-30, 18-29,18-28, 18-27, 18-26, 18-25, 18-24, 18-23, 18-22, 18-21, 18-20, 19-30,19-29, 19-28, 19-27, 19-26, 19-25, 19-24, 19-23, 19-22, 19-21, 19-20,20-30, 20-29, 20-28, 20-27, 20-26, 20-25, 20-24,20-23, 20-22, 20-21,21-30, 21-29, 21-28, 21-27, 21-26, 21-25, 21-24, 21-23, or 21-22 basepairs in length. Ranges and lengths intermediate to the above recitedranges and lengths are also contemplated to be part of the invention.

The two strands forming the duplex structure may be different portionsof one larger RNA molecule, or they may be separate RNA molecules. Wherethe two strands are part of one larger molecule, and therefore areconnected by an uninterrupted chain of nucleotides between the 3′-end ofone strand and the 5′-end of the respective other strand forming theduplex structure, the connecting RNA chain is referred to as a “hairpinloop.” A hairpin loop can comprise at least one unpaired nucleotide. Insome embodiments, the hairpin loop can comprise at least 2, at least 3,at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9,at least 10, at least 20, at least 23 or more unpaired nucleotides.

Where the two substantially complementary strands of a dsRNA arecomprised by separate RNA molecules, those molecules need not, but canbe covalently connected. Where the two strands are connected covalentlyby means other than an uninterrupted chain of nucleotides between the3′-end of one strand and the 5′-end of the respective other strandforming the duplex structure, the connecting structure is referred to asa “linker.” The RNA strands may have the same or a different number ofnucleotides. The maximum number of base pairs is the number ofnucleotides in the shortest strand of the dsRNA minus any overhangs thatare present in the duplex. In addition to the duplex structure, an RNAimay comprise one or more nucleotide overhangs.

In one embodiment, an RNAi agent of the invention is a dsRNA of 24-30nucleotides that interacts with a target RNA sequence, e.g., a C5 targetmRNA sequence, to direct the cleavage of the target RNA. Without wishingto be bound by theory, long double stranded RNA introduced into cells isbroken down into siRNA by a Type III endonuclease known as Dicer (Sharpet al. (2001) Genes Dev. 15:485). Dicer, a ribonuclease-III-like enzyme,processes the dsRNA into 19-23 base pair short interfering RNAs withcharacteristic two base 3′ overhangs (Bernstein, et al., (2001) Nature409:363). The siRNAs are then incorporated into an RNA-induced silencingcomplex (RISC) where one or more helicases unwind the siRNA duplex,enabling the complementary antisense strand to guide target recognition(Nykanen, et al., (2001) Cell 107:309). Upon binding to the appropriatetarget mRNA, one or more endonucleases within the RISC cleave the targetto induce silencing (Elbashir, et al., (2001) Genes Dev. 15:188).

As used herein, the term “nucleotide overhang” refers to at least oneunpaired nucleotide that protrudes from the duplex structure of an iRNA,e.g., a dsRNA. For example, when a 3′-end of one strand of a dsRNAextends beyond the 5′-end of the other strand, or vice versa, there is anucleotide overhang. A dsRNA can comprise an overhang of at least onenucleotide; alternatively the overhang can comprise at least twonucleotides, at least three nucleotides, at least four nucleotides, atleast five nucleotides or more. A nucleotide overhang can comprise orconsist of a nucleotide/nucleoside analog, including adeoxynucleotide/nucleoside. The overhang(s) can be on the sense strand,the antisense strand or any combination thereof. Furthermore, thenucleotide(s) of an overhang can be present on the 5′-end, 3′-end orboth ends of either an antisense or sense strand of a dsRNA.

In one embodiment, the antisense strand of a dsRNA has a 1-10nucleotide, e.g., a 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 nucleotide,overhang at the 3′-end and/or the 5′-end. In one embodiment, the sensestrand of a dsRNA has a 1-10 nucleotide, e.g., a 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,9, or 10 nucleotide, overhang at the 3′-end and/or the 5′-end. Inanother embodiment, one or more of the nucleotides in the overhang isreplaced with a nucleoside thiophosphate.

“Blunt” or “blunt end” means that there are no unpaired nucleotides atthat end of the double stranded RNAi agent, i.e., no nucleotideoverhang. A “blunt ended” RNAi agent is a dsRNA that is double-strandedover its entire length, i.e., no nucleotide overhang at either end ofthe molecule. The RNAi agents of the invention include RNAi agents withnucleotide overhangs at one end (i.e., agents with one overhang and oneblunt end) or with nucleotide overhangs at both ends.

The term “antisense strand” or “guide strand” refers to the strand of aniRNA, e.g., a dsRNA, which includes a region that is substantiallycomplementary to a target sequence, e.g., a C5 mRNA. As used herein, theterm “region of complementarity” refers to the region on the antisensestrand that is substantially complementary to a sequence, for example atarget sequence, e.g., a C5 nucleotide sequence, as defined herein.Where the region of complementarity is not fully complementary to thetarget sequence, the mismatches can be in the internal or terminalregions of the molecule. Generally, the most tolerated mismatches are inthe terminal regions, e.g., within 5, 4, 3, or 2 nucleotides of the 5′-and/or 3′-terminus of the iRNA.

The term “sense strand,” or “passenger strand” as used herein, refers tothe strand of an iRNA that includes a region that is substantiallycomplementary to a region of the antisense strand as that term isdefined herein.

As used herein, the term “cleavage region” refers to a region that islocated immediately adjacent to the cleavage site. The cleavage site isthe site on the target at which cleavage occurs. In some embodiments,the cleavage region comprises three bases on either end of, andimmediately adjacent to, the cleavage site. In some embodiments, thecleavage region comprises two bases on either end of, and immediatelyadjacent to, the cleavage site. In some embodiments, the cleavage sitespecifically occurs at the site bound by nucleotides 10 and 11 of theantisense strand, and the cleavage region comprises nucleotides 11, 12and 13.

As used herein, and unless otherwise indicated, the term“complementary,” when used to describe a first nucleotide sequence inrelation to a second nucleotide sequence, refers to the ability of anoligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising the first nucleotidesequence to hybridize and form a duplex structure under certainconditions with an oligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising thesecond nucleotide sequence, as will be understood by the skilled person.Such conditions can, for example, be stringent conditions, wherestringent conditions can include: 400 mM NaCl, 40 mM PIPES pH 6.4, 1 mMEDTA, 50° C. or 70° C. for 12-16 hours followed by washing (see, e.g.,“Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, Sambrook, et al. (1989) ColdSpring Harbor Laboratory Press). Other conditions, such asphysiologically relevant conditions as can be encountered inside anorganism, can apply. The skilled person will be able to determine theset of conditions most appropriate for a test of complementarity of twosequences in accordance with the ultimate application of the hybridizednucleotides.

Complementary sequences within an iRNA, e.g., within a dsRNA asdescribed herein, include base-pairing of the oligonucleotide orpolynucleotide comprising a first nucleotide sequence to anoligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising a second nucleotidesequence over the entire length of one or both nucleotide sequences.Such sequences can be referred to as “fully complementary” with respectto each other herein. However, where a first sequence is referred to as“substantially complementary” with respect to a second sequence herein,the two sequences can be fully complementary, or they can form one ormore, but generally not more than 5, 4, 3 or 2 mismatched base pairsupon hybridization for a duplex up to 30 base pairs, while retaining theability to hybridize under the conditions most relevant to theirultimate application, e.g., inhibition of gene expression via a RISCpathway. However, where two oligonucleotides are designed to form, uponhybridization, one or more single stranded overhangs, such overhangsshall not be regarded as mismatches with regard to the determination ofcomplementarity. For example, a dsRNA comprising one oligonucleotide 21nucleotides in length and another oligonucleotide 23 nucleotides inlength, wherein the longer oligonucleotide comprises a sequence of 21nucleotides that is fully complementary to the shorter oligonucleotide,can yet be referred to as “fully complementary” for the purposesdescribed herein.

“Complementary” sequences, as used herein, can also include, or beformed entirely from, non-Watson-Crick base pairs and/or base pairsformed from non-natural and modified nucleotides, in so far as the aboverequirements with respect to their ability to hybridize are fulfilled.Such non-Watson-Crick base pairs include, but are not limited to, G:UWobble or Hoogstein base pairing.

The terms “complementary,” “fully complementary” and “substantiallycomplementary” herein can be used with respect to the base matchingbetween the sense strand and the antisense strand of a dsRNA, or betweenthe antisense strand of an iRNA agent and a target sequence, as will beunderstood from the context of their use.

As used herein, a polynucleotide that is “substantially complementary toat least part of” a messenger RNA (mRNA) refers to a polynucleotide thatis substantially complementary to a contiguous portion of the mRNA ofinterest (e.g., an mRNA encoding C5). For example, a polynucleotide iscomplementary to at least a part of a C5 mRNA if the sequence issubstantially complementary to a non-interrupted portion of an mRNAencoding C5.

In general, the majority of nucleotides of each strand areribonucleotides, but as described in detail herein, each or both strandscan also include one or more non-ribonucleotides, e.g., adeoxyribonucleotide and/or a modified nucleotide. In addition, an “iRNA”may include ribonucleotides with chemical modifications. Suchmodifications may include all types of modifications disclosed herein orknown in the art. Any such modifications, as used in an iRNA molecule,are encompassed by “iRNA” for the purposes of this specification andclaims.

In one aspect of the invention, an agent for use in the methods andcompositions of the invention is a single-stranded antisense RNAmolecule that inhibits a target mRNA via an antisense inhibitionmechanism. The single-stranded antisense RNA molecule is complementaryto a sequence within the target mRNA. The single-stranded antisenseoligonucleotides can inhibit translation in a stoichiometric manner bybase pairing to the mRNA and physically obstructing the translationmachinery, see Dias, N. et al., (2002) Mol Cancer Ther 1:347-355. Thesingle-stranded antisense RNA molecule may be about 15 to about 30nucleotides in length and have a sequence that is complementary to atarget sequence. For example, the single-stranded antisense RNA moleculemay comprise a sequence that is at least about 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20,or more contiguous nucleotides from any one of the antisense sequencesdescribed herein.

The term “lipid nanoparticle” or “LNP” is a vesicle comprising a lipidlayer encapsulating a pharmaceutically active molecule, such as anucleic acid molecule, e.g., an iRNA or a plasmid from which an iRNA istranscribed. LNPs are described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos.6,858,225, 6,815,432, 8,158,601, and 8,058,069, the entire contents ofwhich are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

As used herein, a “subject” is an animal, such as a mammal, including aprimate (such as a human, a non-human primate, e.g., a monkey, and achimpanzee), a non-primate (such as a cow, a pig, a camel, a llama, ahorse, a goat, a rabbit, a sheep, a hamster, a guinea pig, a cat, a dog,a rat, a mouse, a horse, and a whale), or a bird (e.g., a duck or agoose). In an embodiment, the subject is a human, such as a human beingtreated or assessed for a disease, disorder or condition that wouldbenefit from reduction in C5 expression; a human at risk for a disease,disorder or condition that would benefit from reduction in C5expression; a human having a disease, disorder or condition that wouldbenefit from reduction in C5 expression; and/or human being treated fora disease, disorder or condition that would benefit from reduction in C5expression as described herein.

As used herein, the terms “treating” or “treatment” refer to abeneficial or desired result including, but not limited to, alleviationor amelioration of one or more symptoms associated with unwantedcomplement pathway activation (e.g., hemolysis and/or chronicinflammation); diminishing the extent of unwanted complement pathwayactivation; stabilization (i.e., not worsening) of the state of chronicinflammation and/or hemolysis; amelioration or palliation of unwantedcomplement pathway activation (e.g., chronic inflammation and/orhemolysis) whether detectable or undetectable. “Treatment” can also meanprolonging survival as compared to expected survival in the absence oftreatment.

The term “lower” in the context of the level of a complement componentC5 in a subject or a disease marker or symptom refers to a statisticallysignificant decrease in such level. The decrease can be, for example, atleast 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, atleast 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 55%, atleast 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, atleast 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or more and is preferably down toa level accepted as within the range of normal for an individual withoutsuch disorder.

As used herein, “prevention” or “preventing,” when used in reference toa disease, disorder or condition thereof, that would benefit from areduction in expression of a C5 gene, refers to a reduction in thelikelihood that a subject will develop a symptom associated with such adisease, disorder, or condition, e.g., a symptom of unwanted complementactivation, such as a chronic inflammation, hemolysis and/or thrombosis.The likelihood of developing a thrombosis is reduced, for example, whenan individual having one or more risk factors for a thrombosis eitherfails to develop a thrombosis or develops a thrombosis with lessseverity relative to a population having the same risk factors and notreceiving treatment as described herein. The failure to develop adisease, disorder or condition, or the reduction in the development of asymptom associated with such a disease, disorder or condition (e.g., byat least about 10% on a clinically accepted scale for that disease ordisorder), or the exhibition of delayed symptoms delayed (e.g., by days,weeks, months or years) is considered effective prevention.

As used herein, the term “complement component C5-associated disease” isa disease or disorder that is caused by, or associated with complementactivation. Such diseases are typically associated with inflammationand/or immune system activation, e.g., membrane attack complex-mediatedlysis, anaphylaxis, and/or hemolysis. Non-limiting examples ofcomplement component C5-associated diseases include paroxysmal nocturnalhemoglobinuria (PNH), atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), asthma,rheumatoid arthritis (RA);

antiphospholipid antibody syndrome; lupus nephritis;ischemia-reperfusion injury; typical or infectious hemolytic uremicsyndrome (tHUS); dense deposit disease (DDD); neuromyelitis optica(NMO); multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN); multiple sclerosis (MS);macular degeneration (e.g., age-related macular degeneration (AMD));hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets (HELLP) syndrome;thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP); spontaneous fetal loss;Pauci-immune vasculitis; epidermolysis bullosa; recurrent fetal loss;pre-eclampsia, traumatic brain injury, myasthenia gravis, coldagglutinin disease, dermatomyositis bullous pemphigoid, Shiga toxin E.coli-related hemolytic uremic syndrome, C3 nephropathy, anti-neutrophilcytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (e.g., granulomatosis withpolyangiitis (previously known as Wegener granulomatosis), Churg-Strausssyndrome, and microscopic polyangiitis), humoral and vascular transplantrejection, graft dysfunction, myocardial infarction (e.g., tissue damageand ischemia in myocardial infarction), an allogenic transplant, sepsis(e.g., poor outcome in sepsis), Coronary artery disease,dermatomyositis, Graves' disease, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease,systemic inflammatory response sepsis, septic shock, spinal cord injury,glomerulonephritis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, type I diabetes, psoriasis,pemphigus, autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), ITP, Goodpasturesyndrome, Degos disease, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), catastrophicAPS (CAPS), a cardiovascular disorder, myocarditis, a cerebrovasculardisorder, a peripheral (e.g., musculoskeletal) vascular disorder, arenovascular disorder, a mesenteric/enteric vascular disorder,vasculitis, Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis, systemic lupuserythematosus-associated vasculitis, vasculitis associated withrheumatoid arthritis, immune complex vasculitis, Takayasu's disease,dilated cardiomyopathy, diabetic angiopathy, Kawasaki's disease(arteritis), venous gas embolus (VGE), and restenosis following stentplacement, rotational atherectomy, membraneous nephropathy,Guillain-Barre syndrome, and percutaneous transluminal coronaryangioplasty (PTCA) (see, e.g., Holers (2008) Immunological Reviews223:300-316; Holers and Thurman (2004) Molecular Immunology 41:147-152;U.S. Patent Publication No. 20070172483).

In one embodiment, a complement component C5-associated disease isparoxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). The PNH may be classical PNHor PNH in the setting of another bone marrow failure syndrome and/ormyelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), e.g., cytopenias. In anotherembodiment, a complement component C5-associated disease is atypicalhemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS).

II. iRNAs of the Invention

The present invention provides iRNAs which inhibit the expression of acomplement component C5 gene. In one embodiment, the iRNA agent includesdouble-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) molecules for inhibiting theexpression of a C5 gene in a cell, such as a cell within a subject,e.g., a mammal, such as a human having a complement componentC5-associated disease, e.g., PNH. The dsRNA includes an antisense strandhaving a region of complementarity which is complementary to at least apart of an mRNA formed in the expression of a C5 gene. The region ofcomplementarity is about 30 nucleotides or less in length (e.g., about30, 29, 28, 27, 26, 25, 24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, or 18 nucleotides orless in length). Upon contact with a cell expressing the C5 gene, theiRNA inhibits the expression of the C5 gene (e.g., a human, a primate, anon-primate, or a bird C5 gene) by at least about 10% as assayed by, forexample, a PCR or branched DNA (bDNA)-based method, or by aprotein-based method, such as by immunofluorescence analysis, using, forexample, Western Blotting or flowcytometric techniques.

A dsRNA includes two RNA strands that are complementary and hybridize toform a duplex structure under conditions in which the dsRNA will beused. One strand of a dsRNA (the antisense strand) includes a region ofcomplementarity that is substantially complementary, and generally fullycomplementary, to a target sequence. The target sequence can be derivedfrom the sequence of an mRNA formed during the expression of a C5 gene.The other strand (the sense strand) includes a region that iscomplementary to the antisense strand, such that the two strandshybridize and form a duplex structure when combined under suitableconditions. As described elsewhere herein and as known in the art, thecomplementary sequences of a dsRNA can also be contained asself-complementary regions of a single nucleic acid molecule, as opposedto being on separate oligonucleotides.

Generally, the duplex structure is between 15 and 30 base pairs inlength, e.g., between, 15-29, 15-28, 15-27, 15-26, 15-25, 15-24, 15-23,15-22, 15-21, 15-20, 15-19, 15-18, 15-17, 18-30, 18-29, 18-28, 18-27,18-26, 18-25, 18-24, 18-23, 18-22, 18-21, 18-20, 19-30, 19-29, 19-28,19-27, 19-26, 19-25, 19-24, 19-23, 19-22, 19-21, 19-20, 20-30, 20-29,20-28, 20-27, 20-26, 20-25, 20-24,20-23, 20-22, 20-21, 21-30, 21-29,21-28, 21-27, 21-26, 21-25, 21-24, 21-23, or 21-22 base pairs in length.Ranges and lengths intermediate to the above recited ranges and lengthsare also contemplated to be part of the invention.

Similarly, the region of complementarity to the target sequence isbetween 15 and 30 nucleotides in length, e.g., between 15-29, 15-28,15-27, 15-26, 15-25, 15-24, 15-23, 15-22, 15-21, 15-20, 15-19, 15-18,15-17, 18-30, 18-29, 18-28, 18-27, 18-26, 18-25, 18-24, 18-23, 18-22,18-21, 18-20, 19-30, 19-29, 19-28, 19-27, 19-26, 19-25, 19-24, 19-23,19-22, 19-21, 19-20, 20-30, 20-29, 20-28, 20-27, 20-26, 20-25,20-24,20-23, 20-22, 20-21, 21-30, 21-29, 21-28, 21-27, 21-26, 21-25,21-24, 21-23, or 21-22 nucleotides in length. Ranges and lengthsintermediate to the above recited ranges and lengths are alsocontemplated to be part of the invention.

In some embodiments, the dsRNA is between about 15 and about 20nucleotides in length, or between about 25 and about 30 nucleotides inlength. In general, the dsRNA is long enough to serve as a substrate forthe Dicer enzyme. For example, it is well-known in the art that dsRNAslonger than about 21-23 nucleotides in length may serve as substratesfor Dicer. As the ordinarily skilled person will also recognize, theregion of an RNA targeted for cleavage will most often be part of alarger RNA molecule, often an mRNA molecule. Where relevant, a “part” ofan mRNA target is a contiguous sequence of an mRNA target of sufficientlength to allow it to be a substrate for RNAi-directed cleavage (i.e.,cleavage through a RISC pathway).

One of skill in the art will also recognize that the duplex region is aprimary functional portion of a dsRNA, e.g., a duplex region of about 9to 36 base pairs, e.g., about 10-36, 11-36, 12-36, 13-36, 14-36, 15-36,9-35, 10-35, 11-35, 12-35, 13-35, 14-35, 15-35, 9-34, 10-34, 11-34,12-34, 13-34, 14-34, 15-34, 9-33, 10-33, 11-33, 12-33, 13-33, 14-33,15-33, 9-32, 10-32, 11-32, 12-32, 13-32, 14-32, 15-32, 9-31, 10-31,11-31, 12-31, 13-32, 14-31, 15-31, 15-30, 15-29, 15-28, 15-27, 15-26,15-25, 15-24, 15-23, 15-22, 15-21, 15-20, 15-19, 15-18, 15-17, 18-30,18-29, 18-28, 18-27, 18-26, 18-25, 18-24, 18-23, 18-22, 18-21, 18-20,19-30, 19-29, 19-28, 19-27, 19-26, 19-25, 19-24, 19-23, 19-22, 19-21,19-20, 20-30, 20-29, 20-28, 20-27, 20-26, 20-25, 20-24,20-23, 20-22,20-21, 21-30, 21-29, 21-28, 21-27, 21-26, 21-25, 21-24, 21-23, or 21-22base pairs. Thus, in one embodiment, to the extent that it becomesprocessed to a functional duplex, of e.g., 15-30 base pairs, thattargets a desired RNA for cleavage, an RNA molecule or complex of RNAmolecules having a duplex region greater than 30 base pairs is a dsRNA.Thus, an ordinarily skilled artisan will recognize that in oneembodiment, a miRNA is a dsRNA. In another embodiment, a dsRNA is not anaturally occurring miRNA. In another embodiment, an iRNA agent usefulto target C5 expression is not generated in the target cell by cleavageof a larger dsRNA.

A dsRNA as described herein can further include one or moresingle-stranded nucleotide overhangs e.g., 1, 2, 3, or 4 nucleotides.dsRNAs having at least one nucleotide overhang can have unexpectedlysuperior inhibitory properties relative to their blunt-endedcounterparts. A nucleotide overhang can comprise or consist of anucleotide/nucleoside analog, including a deoxynucleotide/nucleoside.The overhang(s) can be on the sense strand, the antisense strand or anycombination thereof. Furthermore, the nucleotide(s) of an overhang canbe present on the 5′-end, 3′-end or both ends of either an antisense orsense strand of a dsRNA.

A dsRNA can be synthesized by standard methods known in the art asfurther discussed below, e.g., by use of an automated DNA synthesizer,such as are commercially available from, for example, Biosearch, AppliedBiosystems, Inc.

iRNA compounds of the invention may be prepared using a two-stepprocedure. First, the individual strands of the double-stranded RNAmolecule are prepared separately. Then, the component strands areannealed. The individual strands of the siRNA compound can be preparedusing solution-phase or solid-phase organic synthesis or both. Organicsynthesis offers the advantage that the oligonucleotide strandscomprising unnatural or modified nucleotides can be easily prepared.Single-stranded oligonucleotides of the invention can be prepared usingsolution-phase or solid-phase organic synthesis or both.

In one aspect, a dsRNA of the invention includes at least two nucleotidesequences, a sense sequence and an anti-sense sequence. The sense strandis selected from the group of sequences provided in any one of Tables 3,4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23, and the corresponding antisense strandof the sense strand is selected from the group of sequences of any oneof Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23. In this aspect, one of thetwo sequences is complementary to the other of the two sequences, withone of the sequences being substantially complementary to a sequence ofan mRNA generated in the expression of a C5 gene. As such, in thisaspect, a dsRNA will include two oligonucleotides, where oneoligonucleotide is described as the sense strand in any one of Tables 3,4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23, and the second oligonucleotide isdescribed as the corresponding antisense strand of the sense strand inany one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23. In one embodiment,the substantially complementary sequences of the dsRNA are contained onseparate oligonucleotides. In another embodiment, the substantiallycomplementary sequences of the dsRNA are contained on a singleoligonucleotide.

It will be understood that, although some of the sequences in Tables 3,4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23 are described as modified and/orconjugated sequences, the RNA of the iRNA of the invention e.g., a dsRNAof the invention, may comprise any one of the sequences set forth inTables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23 that is un-modified,un-conjugated, and/or modified and/or conjugated differently thandescribed therein.

The skilled person is well aware that dsRNAs having a duplex structureof between about 20 and 23 base pairs, e.g., 21, base pairs have beenhailed as particularly effective in inducing RNA interference (Elbashiret al., EMBO 2001, 20:6877-6888). However, others have found thatshorter or longer RNA duplex structures can also be effective (Chu andRana (2007) RNA 14:1714-1719; Kim et al. (2005) Nat Biotech 23:222-226).In the embodiments described above, by virtue of the nature of theoligonucleotide sequences provided in any one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18,19, 20, 21, and 23, dsRNAs described herein can include at least onestrand of a length of minimally 21 nucleotides. It can be reasonablyexpected that shorter duplexes having one of the sequences of any one ofTables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23 minus only a few nucleotideson one or both ends can be similarly effective as compared to the dsRNAsdescribed above. Hence, dsRNAs having a sequence of at least 15, 16, 17,18, 19, 20, or more contiguous nucleotides derived from one of thesequences of any one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23, anddiffering in their ability to inhibit the expression of a C5 gene by notmore than about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30% inhibition from a dsRNAcomprising the full sequence, are contemplated to be within the scope ofthe present invention.

In addition, the RNAs provided in any one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19,20, 21, and 23 identify a site(s) in a C5 transcript that is susceptibleto RISC-mediated cleavage. As such, the present invention furtherfeatures iRNAs that target within one of these sites. As used herein, aniRNA is said to target within a particular site of an RNA transcript ifthe iRNA promotes cleavage of the transcript anywhere within thatparticular site. Such an iRNA will generally include at least about 15contiguous nucleotides from one of the sequences provided in any one ofTables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23 coupled to additionalnucleotide sequences taken from the region contiguous to the selectedsequence in a C5 gene.

While a target sequence is generally about 15-30 nucleotides in length,there is wide variation in the suitability of particular sequences inthis range for directing cleavage of any given target RNA. Varioussoftware packages and the guidelines set out herein provide guidance forthe identification of optimal target sequences for any given genetarget, but an empirical approach can also be taken in which a “window”or “mask” of a given size (as a non-limiting example, 21 nucleotides) isliterally or figuratively (including, e.g., in silico) placed on thetarget RNA sequence to identify sequences in the size range that canserve as target sequences. By moving the sequence “window” progressivelyone nucleotide upstream or downstream of an initial target sequencelocation, the next potential target sequence can be identified, untilthe complete set of possible sequences is identified for any giventarget size selected. This process, coupled with systematic synthesisand testing of the identified sequences (using assays as describedherein or as known in the art) to identify those sequences that performoptimally can identify those RNA sequences that, when targeted with aniRNA agent, mediate the best inhibition of target gene expression. Thus,while the sequences identified, for example, in any one of Tables 3, 4,5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23 represent effective target sequences, it iscontemplated that further optimization of inhibition efficiency can beachieved by progressively “walking the window” one nucleotide upstreamor downstream of the given sequences to identify sequences with equal orbetter inhibition characteristics.

Further, it is contemplated that for any sequence identified, e.g., inany one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23, furtheroptimization could be achieved by systematically either adding orremoving nucleotides to generate longer or shorter sequences and testingthose sequences generated by walking a window of the longer or shortersize up or down the target RNA from that point. Again, coupling thisapproach to generating new candidate targets with testing foreffectiveness of iRNAs based on those target sequences in an inhibitionassay as known in the art and/or as described herein can lead to furtherimprovements in the efficiency of inhibition. Further still, suchoptimized sequences can be adjusted by, e.g., the introduction ofmodified nucleotides as described herein or as known in the art,addition or changes in overhang, or other modifications as known in theart and/or discussed herein to further optimize the molecule (e.g.,increasing serum stability or circulating half-life, increasing thermalstability, enhancing transmembrane delivery, targeting to a particularlocation or cell type, increasing interaction with silencing pathwayenzymes, increasing release from endosomes) as an expression inhibitor.

An iRNA as described herein can contain one or more mismatches to thetarget sequence. In one embodiment, an iRNA as described herein containsno more than 3 mismatches. If the antisense strand of the iRNA containsmismatches to a target sequence, it is preferable that the area ofmismatch is not located in the center of the region of complementarity.If the antisense strand of the iRNA contains mismatches to the targetsequence, it is preferable that the mismatch be restricted to be withinthe last 5 nucleotides from either the 5′- or 3′-end of the region ofcomplementarity. For example, for a 23 nucleotide iRNA agent the strandwhich is complementary to a region of a C5 gene, generally does notcontain any mismatch within the central 13 nucleotides. The methodsdescribed herein or methods known in the art can be used to determinewhether an iRNA containing a mismatch to a target sequence is effectivein inhibiting the expression of a C5 gene. Consideration of the efficacyof iRNAs with mismatches in inhibiting expression of a C5 gene isimportant, especially if the particular region of complementarity in aC5 gene is known to have polymorphic sequence variation within thepopulation.

III. Modified iRNAs of the Invention

In one embodiment, the RNA of the iRNA of the invention e.g., a dsRNA,is un-modified, and does not comprise, e.g., chemical modificationsand/or conjugations known in the art and described herein. In anotherembodiment, the RNA of an iRNA of the invention, e.g., a dsRNA, ischemically modified to enhance stability or other beneficialcharacteristics. In certain embodiments of the invention, substantiallyall of the nucleotides of an iRNA of the invention are modified. Inother embodiments of the invention, all of the nucleotides of an iRNA ofthe invention are modified. iRNAs of the invention in which“substantially all of the nucleotides are modified” are largely but notwholly modified and can include not more than 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1unmodified nucleotides.

The nucleic acids featured in the invention can be synthesized and/ormodified by methods well established in the art, such as those describedin “Current protocols in nucleic acid chemistry,” Beaucage, S. L. et al.(Edrs.), John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, N.Y., USA, which is herebyincorporated herein by reference. Modifications include, for example,end modifications, e.g., 5′-end modifications (phosphorylation,conjugation, inverted linkages) or 3′-end modifications (conjugation,DNA nucleotides, inverted linkages, etc.); base modifications, e.g.,replacement with stabilizing bases, destabilizing bases, or bases thatbase pair with an expanded repertoire of partners, removal of bases(abasic nucleotides), or conjugated bases; sugar modifications (e.g., atthe 2′-position or 4′-position) or replacement of the sugar; and/orbackbone modifications, including modification or replacement of thephosphodiester linkages. Specific examples of iRNA compounds useful inthe embodiments described herein include, but are not limited to RNAscontaining modified backbones or no natural internucleoside linkages.RNAs having modified backbones include, among others, those that do nothave a phosphorus atom in the backbone. For the purposes of thisspecification, and as sometimes referenced in the art, modified RNAsthat do not have a phosphorus atom in their internucleoside backbone canalso be considered to be oligonucleosides. In some embodiments, amodified iRNA will have a phosphorus atom in its internucleosidebackbone.

Modified RNA backbones include, for example, phosphorothioates, chiralphosphorothioates, phosphorodithioates, phosphotriesters,aminoalkylphosphotriesters, methyl and other alkyl phosphonatesincluding 3′-alkylene phosphonates and chiral phosphonates,phosphinates, phosphoramidates including 3′-amino phosphoramidate andaminoalkylphosphoramidates, thionophosphoramidates,thionoalkylphosphonates, thionoalkylphosphotriesters, andboranophosphates having normal 3′-5′ linkages, 2′-5′-linked analogs ofthese, and those having inverted polarity wherein the adjacent pairs ofnucleoside units are linked 3′-5′ to 5′-3′ or 2′-5′ to 5′-2′. Varioussalts, mixed salts and free acid forms are also included.

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of the abovephosphorus-containing linkages include, but are not limited to, U.S.Pat. Nos. 3,687,808; 4,469,863; 4,476,301; 5,023,243; 5,177,195;5,188,897; 5,264,423; 5,276,019; 5,278,302; 5,286,717; 5,321,131;5,399,676; 5,405,939; 5,453,496; 5,455,233; 5,466,677; 5,476,925;5,519,126; 5,536,821; 5,541,316; 5,550,111; 5,563,253; 5,571,799;5,587,361; 5,625,050; 6,028,188; 6,124,445; 6,160,109; 6,169,170;6,172,209; 6, 239,265; 6,277,603; 6,326,199; 6,346,614; 6,444,423;6,531,590; 6,534,639; 6,608,035; 6,683,167; 6,858,715; 6,867,294;6,878,805; 7,015,315; 7,041,816; 7,273,933; 7,321,029; and US PatRE39464, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporatedherein by reference.

Modified RNA backbones that do not include a phosphorus atom thereinhave backbones that are formed by short chain alkyl or cycloalkylinternucleoside linkages, mixed heteroatoms and alkyl or cycloalkylinternucleoside linkages, or one or more short chain heteroatomic orheterocyclic internucleoside linkages. These include those havingmorpholino linkages (formed in part from the sugar portion of anucleoside); siloxane backbones; sulfide, sulfoxide and sulfonebackbones; formacetyl and thioformacetyl backbones; methylene formacetyland thioformacetyl backbones; alkene containing backbones; sulfamatebackbones; methyleneimino and methylenehydrazino backbones; sulfonateand sulfonamide backbones; amide backbones; and others having mixed N,O, S and CH₂ component parts.

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of the aboveoligonucleosides include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos.5,034,506; 5,166,315; 5,185,444; 5,214,134;

5,216,141; 5,235,033; 5,64,562; 5,264,564; 5,405,938; 5,434,257;5,466,677; 5,470,967; 5,489,677; 5,541,307; 5,561,225; 5,596,086;5,602,240; 5,608,046; 5,610,289; 5,618,704; 5,623,070; 5,663,312;5,633,360; 5,677,437; and, 5,677,439, the entire contents of each ofwhich are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

In other embodiments, suitable RNA mimetics are contemplated for use iniRNAs, in which both the sugar and the internucleoside linkage, i.e.,the backbone, of the nucleotide units are replaced with novel groups.The base units are maintained for hybridization with an appropriatenucleic acid target compound. One such oligomeric compound, an RNAmimetic that has been shown to have excellent hybridization properties,is referred to as a peptide nucleic acid (PNA). In PNA compounds, thesugar backbone of an RNA is replaced with an amide containing backbone,in particular an aminoethylglycine backbone. The nucleobases areretained and are bound directly or indirectly to aza nitrogen atoms ofthe amide portion of the backbone. Representative U.S. patents thatteach the preparation of PNA compounds include, but are not limited to,U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,539,082; 5,714,331; and 5,719,262, the entire contentsof each of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. AdditionalPNA compounds suitable for use in the iRNAs of the invention aredescribed in, for example, in Nielsen et al., Science, 1991, 254,1497-1500.

Some embodiments featured in the invention include RNAs withphosphorothioate backbones and oligonucleosides with heteroatombackbones, and in particular —CH₂—NH—CH₂—, —CH₂—N(CH₃)—O—CH₂— [known asa methylene (methylimino) or MMI backbone], —CH₂—O—N(CH₃)—CH₂—,—CH₂—N(CH₃)—N(CH₃)—CH₂— and —N(CH₃)—CH₂—CH₂— [wherein the nativephosphodiester backbone is represented as —O—P—O—CH₂—] of theabove-referenced U.S. Pat. No. 5,489,677, and the amide backbones of theabove-referenced U.S. Pat. No. 5,602,240. In some embodiments, the RNAsfeatured herein have morpholino backbone structures of theabove-referenced U.S. Pat. No. 5,034,506.

Modified RNAs can also contain one or more substituted sugar moieties.The iRNAs, e.g., dsRNAs, featured herein can include one of thefollowing at the 2′-position: OH; F; O—, S—, or N-alkyl; O—, S—, orN-alkenyl; O-, S- or N-alkynyl; or O-alkyl-O-alkyl, wherein the alkyl,alkenyl and alkynyl can be substituted or unsubstituted C₁ to C₁₀ alkylor C₂ to C₁₀ alkenyl and alkynyl. Exemplary suitable modificationsinclude O[(CH₂)_(n)O]_(m)CH₃, O(CH₂)._(n)OCH₃, O(CH₂)_(n)NH₂,O(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, O(CH₂)_(n)ONH₂, and O(CH₂)_(n)ON[(CH₂)_(n)CH₃)]₂, where nand m are from 1 to about 10. In other embodiments, dsRNAs include oneof the following at the 2′ position: C₁ to C₁₀ lower alkyl, substitutedlower alkyl, alkaryl, aralkyl, O-alkaryl or O-aralkyl, SH, SCH₃, OCN,Cl, Br, CN, CF₃, OCF₃, SOCH₃, SO₂CH₃, ONO₂, NO₂, N₃, NH₂,heterocycloalkyl, heterocycloalkaryl, aminoalkylamino, polyalkylamino,substituted silyl, an RNA cleaving group, a reporter group, anintercalator, a group for improving the pharmacokinetic properties of aniRNA, or a group for improving the pharmacodynamic properties of aniRNA, and other substituents having similar properties. In someembodiments, the modification includes a 2′-methoxyethoxy(2′-O—CH₂CH₂OCH₃, also known as 2′-O-(2-methoxyethyl) or 2′-MOE) (Martinet al., Helv. Chim. Acta, 1995, 78:486-504) i.e., an alkoxy-alkoxygroup. Another exemplary modification is 2′-dimethylaminooxyethoxy,i.e., a O(CH₂)₂ON(CH₃)₂ group, also known as 2′-DMAOE, as described inexamples herein below, and 2′-dimethylaminoethoxyethoxy (also known inthe art as 2′-O-dimethylaminoethoxyethyl or 2′-DMAEOE), i.e.,2′-O—CH₂—O—CH₂—N(CH₂)₂.

Other modifications include 2′-methoxy (2′-OCH₃), 2′-aminopropoxy(2′-OCH₂CH₂CH₂NH₂) and 2′-fluoro (2′-F). Similar modifications can alsobe made at other positions on the RNA of an iRNA, particularly the 3′position of the sugar on the 3′ terminal nucleotide or in 2′-5′ linkeddsRNAs and the 5′ position of 5′ terminal nucleotide. iRNAs can alsohave sugar mimetics such as cyclobutyl moieties in place of thepentofuranosyl sugar. Representative U.S. patents that teach thepreparation of such modified sugar structures include, but are notlimited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,981,957; 5,118,800; 5,319,080; 5,359,044;5,393,878; 5,446,137; 5,466,786; 5,514,785; 5,519,134; 5,567,811;5,576,427; 5,591,722; 5,597,909; 5,610,300; 5,627,053; 5,639,873;5,646,265; 5,658,873; 5,670,633; and 5,700,920, certain of which arecommonly owned with the instant application,. The entire contents ofeach of the foregoing are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

An iRNA can also include nucleobase (often referred to in the art simplyas “base”) modifications or substitutions. As used herein, “unmodified”or “natural” nucleobases include the purine bases adenine (A) andguanine (G), and the pyrimidine bases thymine (T), cytosine (C) anduracil (U). Modified nucleobases include other synthetic and naturalnucleobases such as deoxy-thymine (dT), 5-methylcytosine (5-me-C),5-hydroxymethyl cytosine, xanthine, hypoxanthine, 2-aminoadenine,6-methyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-propyland other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-thiouracil,2-thiothymine and 2-thiocytosine, 5-halouracil and cytosine, 5-propynyluracil and cytosine, 6-azo uracil, cytosine and thymine, 5-uracil(pseudouracil), 4-thiouracil, 8-halo, 8-amino, 8-thiol, 8-thioalkyl,8-hydroxyl anal other 8-substituted adenines and guanines, 5-halo,particularly 5-bromo, 5-trifluoromethyl and other 5-substituted uracilsand cytosines, 7-methylguanine and 7-methyladenine, 8-azaguanine and8-azaadenine, 7-deazaguanine and 7-daazaadenine and 3-deazaguanine and3-deazaadenine. Further nucleobases include those disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 3,687,808, those disclosed in Modified Nucleosides in Biochemistry,Biotechnology and Medicine, Herdewijn, P. ed. Wiley-VCH, 2008; thosedisclosed in The Concise Encyclopedia Of Polymer Science AndEngineering, pages 858-859, Kroschwitz, J. L, ed. John Wiley & Sons,1990, these disclosed by Englisch et al., Angewandte Chemie,International Edition, 1991, 30, 613, and those disclosed by Sanghvi, YS., Chapter 15, dsRNA Research and Applications, pages 289-302, Crooke,S. T. and Lebleu, B., Ed., CRC Press, 1993. Certain of these nucleobasesare particularly useful for increasing the binding affinity of theoligomeric compounds featured in the invention. These include5-substituted pyrimidines, 6-azapyrimidines and N-2, N-6 and 0-6substituted purines, including 2-aminopropyladenine, 5-propynyluraciland 5-propynylcytosine. 5-methylcytosine substitutions have been shownto increase nucleic acid duplex stability by 0.6-1.2° C. (Sanghvi, Y.S., Crooke, S. T. and Lebleu, B., Eds., dsRNA Research and Applications,CRC Press, Boca Raton, 1993, pp. 276-278) and are exemplary basesubstitutions, even more particularly when combined with2′-O-methoxyethyl sugar modifications.

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of certain of theabove noted modified nucleobases as well as other modified nucleobasesinclude, but are not limited to, the above noted U.S. Pat. Nos.3,687,808, 4,845,205; 5,130,30; 5,134,066; 5,175,273; 5,367,066;5,432,272; 5,457,187; 5,459,255; 5,484,908; 5,502,177; 5,525,711;5,552,540; 5,587,469; 5,594,121, 5,596,091; 5,614,617; 5,681,941;5,750,692; 6,015,886; 6,147,200; 6,166,197; 6,222,025; 6,235,887;6,380,368; 6,528,640; 6,639,062; 6,617,438; 7,045,610; 7,427,672; and7,495,088, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporatedherein by reference.

The RNA of an iRNA can also be modified to include one or more lockednucleic acids (LNA). A locked nucleic acid is a nucleotide having amodified ribose moiety in which the ribose moiety comprises an extrabridge connecting the 2′ and 4′ carbons. This structure effectively“locks” the ribose in the 3′-endo structural conformation. The additionof locked nucleic acids to siRNAs has been shown to increase siRNAstability in serum, and to reduce off-target effects (Elmen, J. et al.,(2005) Nucleic Acids Research 33(1):439-447; Mook, O R. et al., (2007)Mol Canc Ther 6(3):833-843; Grunweller, A. et al., (2003) Nucleic AcidsResearch 31(12):3185-3193).

Representative U.S. Patents that teach the preparation of locked nucleicacid nucleotides include, but are not limited to, the following: U.S.Pat. Nos. 6,268,490; 6,670,461; 6,794,499; 6,998,484; 7,053,207;7,084,125; and 7,399,845, the entire contents of each of which arehereby incorporated herein by reference.

Potentially stabilizing modifications to the ends of RNA molecules caninclude N-(acetylaminocaproyl)-4-hydroxyprolinol (Hyp-C6-NHAc),N-(caproyl-4-hydroxyprolinol (Hyp-C6), N-(acetyl-4-hydroxyprolinol(Hyp-NHAc), thymidine-2′-O-deoxythymidine (ether),N-(aminocaproyl)-4-hydroxyprolinol (Hyp-C6-amino),2-docosanoyl-uridine-3″- phosphate, inverted base dT(idT) and others.Disclosure of this modification can be found in PCT Publication No. WO2011/005861.

A. Modified iRNAs Comprising Motifs of the Invention

In certain aspects of the invention, the double-stranded RNAi agents ofthe invention include agents with chemical modifications as disclosed,for example, in U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/561,710, filed onNov. 18, 2011, or in PCT/US2012/065691, filed on Nov. 16, 2012, theentire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

As shown herein and in Provisional Application No. 61/561,710 or PCTApplication No. PCT/US2012/065691, a superior result may be obtained byintroducing one or more motifs of three identical modifications on threeconsecutive nucleotides into a sense strand and/or antisense strand ofan RNAi agent, particularly at or near the cleavage site. In someembodiments, the sense strand and antisense strand of the RNAi agent mayotherwise be completely modified. The introduction of these motifsinterrupts the modification pattern, if present, of the sense and/orantisense strand. The RNAi agent may be optionally conjugated with aGalNAc derivative ligand, for instance on the sense strand. Theresulting RNAi agents present superior gene silencing activity.

More specifically, it has been surprisingly discovered that when thesense strand and antisense strand of the double-stranded RNAi agent arecompletely modified to have one or more motifs of three identicalmodifications on three consecutive nucleotides at or near the cleavagesite of at least one strand of an RNAi agent, the gene silencingacitivity of the RNAi agent was superiorly enhanced.

Accordingly, the invention provides double-stranded RNAi agents capableof inhibiting the expression of a target gene (i.e., a complementcomponent C5 (C5) gene) in vivo. The RNAi agent comprises a sense strandand an antisense strand. Each strand of the RNAi agent may range from12-30 nucleotides in length. For example, each strand may be between14-30 nucleotides in length, 17-30 nucleotides in length, 25-30nucleotides in length, 27-30 nucleotides in length, 17-23 nucleotides inlength, 17-21 nucleotides in length, 17-19 nucleotides in length, 19-25nucleotides in length, 19-23 nucleotides in length, 19-21 nucleotides inlength, 21-25 nucleotides in length, or 21-23 nucleotides in length.

The sense strand and anti sense strand typically form a duplex doublestranded RNA (“dsRNA”), also referred to herein as an “RNAi agent.” Theduplex region of an RNAi agent may be 12-30 nucleotide pairs in length.For example, the duplex region can be between 14-30 nucleotide pairs inlength, 17-30 nucleotide pairs in length, 27-30 nucleotide pairs inlength, 17 -23 nucleotide pairs in length, 17-21 nucleotide pairs inlength, 17-19 nucleotide pairs in length, 19-25 nucleotide pairs inlength, 19-23 nucleotide pairs in length, 19- 21 nucleotide pairs inlength, 21-25 nucleotide pairs in length, or 21-23 nucleotide pairs inlength. In another example, the duplex region is selected from 15, 16,17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, and 27 nucleotides in length.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent may contain one or more overhangregions and/or capping groups at the 3′-end, 5′-end, or both ends of oneor both strands. The overhang can be 1-6 nucleotides in length, forinstance 2-6 nucleotides in length, 1-5 nucleotides in length, 2-5nucleotides in length, 1-4 nucleotides in length, 2-4 nucleotides inlength, 1-3 nucleotides in length, 2-3 nucleotides in length, or 1-2nucleotides in length. The overhangs can be the result of one strandbeing longer than the other, or the result of two strands of the samelength being staggered. The overhang can form a mismatch with the targetmRNA or it can be complementary to the gene sequences being targeted orcan be another sequence. The first and second strands can also bejoined, e.g., by additional bases to form a hairpin, or by othernon-base linkers.

In one embodiment, the nucleotides in the overhang region of the RNAiagent can each independently be a modified or unmodified nucleotideincluding, but no limited to 2′-sugar modified, such as, 2-F,2′-Omethyl, thymidine (T), 2′-O-methoxyethyl-5-methyluridine (Teo),2′-O-methoxyethyladenosine (Aeo), 2′-O-methoxyethyl-5-methylcytidine(m5Ceo), and any combinations thereof. For example, TT can be anoverhang sequence for either end on either strand. The overhang can forma mismatch with the target mRNA or it can be complementary to the genesequences being targeted or can be another sequence.

The 5′- or 3′- overhangs at the sense strand, antisense strand or bothstrands of the RNAi agent may be phosphorylated. In some embodiments,the overhang region(s) contains two nucleotides having aphosphorothioate between the two nucleotides, where the two nucleotidescan be the same or different. In one embodiment, the overhang is presentat the 3′-end of the sense strand, antisense strand, or both strands. Inone embodiment, this 3′-overhang is present in the antisense strand. Inone embodiment, this 3′-overhang is present in the sense strand.

The RNAi agent may contain only a single overhang, which can strengthenthe interference activity of the RNAi, without affecting its overallstability. For example, the single-stranded overhang may be located atthe 3′-terminal end of the sense strand or, alternatively, at the3′-terminal end of the antisense strand. The RNAi may also have a bluntend, located at the 5′-end of the antisense strand (or the 3′-end of thesense strand) or vice versa. Generally, the antisense strand of the RNAihas a nucleotide overhang at the 3′-end, and the 5′-end is blunt. Whilenot wishing to be bound by theory, the asymmetric blunt end at the5′-end of the antisense strand and 3′-end overhang of the antisensestrand favor the guide strand loading into RISC process.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent is a double ended bluntmer of 19nucleotides in length, wherein the sense strand contains at least onemotif of three 2′-F modifications on three consecutive nucleotides atpositions 7, 8, 9 from the 5′end. The antisense strand contains at leastone motif of three 2′-O-methyl modifications on three consecutivenucleotides at positions 11, 12, 13 from the 5′ end.

In another embodiment, the RNAi agent is a double ended bluntmer of 20nucleotides in length, wherein the sense strand contains at least onemotif of three 2′-F modifications on three consecutive nucleotides atpositions 8, 9, 10 from the 5′end. The antisense strand contains atleast one motif of three 2′-O-methyl modifications on three consecutivenucleotides at positions 11, 12, 13 from the 5′ end.

In yet another embodiment, the RNAi agent is a double ended bluntmer of21 nucleotides in length, wherein the sense strand contains at least onemotif of three 2′-F modifications on three consecutive nucleotides atpositions 9, 10, 11 from the 5′end. The antisense strand contains atleast one motif of three 2′-O-methyl modifications on three consecutivenucleotides at positions 11, 12, 13 from the 5′ end.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent comprises a 21 nucleotide sense strandand a 23 nucleotide antisense strand, wherein the sense strand containsat least one motif of three 2′-F modifications on three consecutivenucleotides at positions 9, 10, 11 from the 5′end; the antisense strandcontains at least one motif of three 2′-O-methyl modifications on threeconsecutive nucleotides at positions 11, 12, 13 from the 5′ end, whereinone end of the RNAi agent is blunt, while the other end comprises a 2nucleotide overhang. Preferably, the 2 nucleotide overhang is at the3′-end of the antisense strand. When the 2 nucleotide overhang is at the3′-end of the antisense strand, there may be two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkages between the terminal three nucleotides, whereintwo of the three nucleotides are the overhang nucleotides, and the thirdnucleotide is a paired nucleotide next to the overhang nucleotide. Inone embodiment, the RNAi agent additionally has two phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkages between the terminal three nucleotides at boththe 5′-end of the sense strand and at the 5′-end of the antisensestrand. In one embodiment, every nucleotide in the sense strand and theantisense strand of the RNAi agent, including the nucleotides that arepart of the motifs are modified nucleotides. In one embodiment eachresidue is independently modified with a 2′-O-methyl or 3′-fluoro, e.g.,in an alternating motif. Optionally, the RNAi agent further comprises aligand (preferably GalNAc₃).

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent comprises a sense and an antisensestrand, wherein the sense strand is 25-30 nucleotide residues in length,wherein starting from the 5′ terminal nucleotide (position 1) positions1 to 23 of the first strand comprise at least 8 ribonucleotides; theantisense strand is 36-66 nucleotide residues in length and, startingfrom the 3′ terminal nucleotide, comprises at least 8 ribonucleotides inthe positions paired with positions 1-23 of sense strand to form aduplex; wherein at least the 3′ terminal nucleotide of antisense strandis unpaired with sense strand, and up to 6 consecutive 3′ terminalnucleotides are unpaired with sense strand, thereby forming a 3′ singlestranded overhang of 1-6 nucleotides; wherein the 5′ terminus ofantisense strand comprises from 10-30 consecutive nucleotides which areunpaired with sense strand, thereby forming a 10-30 nucleotide singlestranded 5′ overhang; wherein at least the sense strand 5′ terminal and3′ terminal nucleotides are base paired with nucleotides of antisensestrand when sense and antisense strands are aligned for maximumcomplementarity, thereby forming a substantially duplexed region betweensense and antisense strands; and antisense strand is sufficientlycomplementary to a target RNA along at least 19 ribonucleotides ofantisense strand length to reduce target gene expression when the doublestranded nucleic acid is introduced into a mammalian cell; and whereinthe sense strand contains at least one motif of three 2′-F modificationson three consecutive nucleotides, where at least one of the motifsoccurs at or near the cleavage site. The antisense strand contains atleast one motif of three 2′-O-methyl modifications on three consecutivenucleotides at or near the cleavage site.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent comprises sense and antisense strands,wherein the RNAi agent comprises a first strand having a length which isat least 25 and at most 29 nucleotides and a second strand having alength which is at most 30 nucleotides with at least one motif of three2′-O-methyl modifications on three consecutive nucleotides at position11, 12, 13 from the 5′ end; wherein the 3′ end of the first strand andthe 5′ end of the second strand form a blunt end and the second strandis 1-4 nucleotides longer at its 3′ end than the first strand, whereinthe duplex region region which is at least 25 nucleotides in length, andthe second strand is sufficiently complemenatary to a target mRNA alongat least 19 nucleotide of the second strand length to reduce target geneexpression when the RNAi agent is introduced into a mammalian cell, andwherein dicer cleavage of the RNAi agent preferentially results in ansiRNA comprising the 3′ end of the second strand, thereby reducingexpression of the target gene in the mammal. Optionally, the RNAi agentfurther comprises a ligand.

In one embodiment, the sense strand of the RNAi agent contains at leastone motif of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides, where one of the motifs occurs at the cleavage site in thesense strand.

In one embodiment, the antisense strand of the RNAi agent can alsocontain at least one motif of three identical modifications on threeconsecutive nucleotides, where one of the motifs occurs at or near thecleavage site in the antisense strand

For an RNAi agent having a duplex region of 17-23 nucleotide in length,the cleavage site of the antisense strand is typically around the 10, 11and 12 positions from the 5′-end. Thus the motifs of three identicalmodifications may occur at the 9, 10, 11 positions; 10, 11, 12positions; 11, 12, 13 positions; 12, 13, 14 positions; or 13, 14, 15positions of the antisense strand, the count starting from the 1s^(t)nucleotide from the 5′-end of the antisense strand, or, the countstarting from the 1^(st) paired nucleotide within the duplex region fromthe 5′-end of the antisense strand. The cleavage site in the antisensestrand may also change according to the length of the duplex region ofthe RNAi from the 5′-end.

The sense strand of the RNAi agent may contain at least one motif ofthree identical modifications on three consecutive nucleotides at thecleavage site of the strand; and the antisense strand may have at leastone motif of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides at or near the cleavage site of the strand. When the sensestrand and the antisense strand form a dsRNA duplex, the sense strandand the antisense strand can be so aligned that one motif of the threenucleotides on the sense strand and one motif of the three nucleotideson the antisense strand have at least one nucleotide overlap, i.e., atleast one of the three nucleotides of the motif in the sense strandforms a base pair with at least one of the three nucleotides of themotif in the antisense strand. Alternatively, at least two nucleotidesmay overlap, or all three nucleotides may overlap.

In one embodiment, the sense strand of the RNAi agent may contain morethan one motif of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides. The first motif may occur at or near the cleavage site ofthe strand and the other motifs may be a wing modification. The term“wing modification” herein refers to a motif occurring at anotherportion of the strand that is separated from the motif at or near thecleavage site of the same strand. The wing modification is eitheradajacent to the first motif or is separated by at least one or morenucleotides. When the motifs are immediately adjacent to each other thenthe chemistry of the motifs are distinct from each other and when themotifs are separated by one or more nucleotide than the chemistries canbe the same or different. Two or more wing modifications may be present.For instance, when two wing modifications are present, each wingmodification may occur at one end relative to the first motif which isat or near cleavage site or on either side of the lead motif.

Like the sense strand, the antisense strand of the RNAi agent maycontain more than one motifs of three identical modifications on threeconsecutive nucleotides, with at least one of the motifs occurring at ornear the cleavage site of the strand. This antisense strand may alsocontain one or more wing modifications in an alignment similar to thewing modifications that may be present on the sense strand.

In one embodiment, the wing modification on the sense strand orantisense strand of the RNAi agent typically does not include the firstone or two terminal nucleotides at the 3′-end, 5′-end or both ends ofthe strand.

In another embodiment, the wing modification on the sense strand orantisense strand of the RNAi agent typically does not include the firstone or two paired nucleotides within the duplex region at the 3′-end,5′-end or both ends of the strand.

When the sense strand and the antisense strand of the RNAi agent eachcontain at least one wing modification, the wing modifications may fallon the same end of the duplex region, and have an overlap of one, two orthree nucleotides.

When the sense strand and the antisense strand of the RNAi agent eachcontain at least two wing modifications, the sense strand and theantisense strand can be so aligned that two modifications each from onestrand fall on one end of the duplex region, having an overlap of one,two or three nucleotides; two modifications each from one strand fall onthe other end of the duplex region, having an overlap of one, two orthree nucleotides; two modifications one strand fall on each side of thelead motif, having an overlap of one, two or three nucleotides in theduplex region.

In one embodiment, every nucleotide in the sense strand and antisensestrand of the RNAi agent, including the nucleotides that are part of themotifs, may be modified. Each nucleotide may be modified with the sameor different modification which can include one or more alteration ofone or both of the non-linking phosphate oxygens and/or of one or moreof the linking phosphate oxygens; alteration of a constituent of theribose sugar, e.g., of the 2′ hydroxyl on the ribose sugar; wholesalereplacement of the phosphate moiety with “dephospho” linkers;modification or replacement of a naturally occurring base; andreplacement or modification of the ribose-phosphate backbone.

As nucleic acids are polymers of subunits, many of the modificationsoccur at a position which is repeated within a nucleic acid, e.g., amodification of a base, or a phosphate moiety, or a non-linking O of aphosphate moiety. In some cases the modification will occur at all ofthe subject positions in the nucleic acid but in many cases it will not.By way of example, a modification may only occur at a 3′ or 5′ terminalposition, may only occur in a terminal region, e.g., at a position on aterminal nucleotide or in the last 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10 nucleotides of astrand. A modification may occur in a double strand region, a singlestrand region, or in both. A modification may occur only in the doublestrand region of a RNA or may only occur in a single strand region of aRNA. For example, a phosphorothioate modification at a non-linking Oposition may only occur at one or both termini, may only occur in aterminal region, e.g., at a position on a terminal nucleotide or in thelast 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10 nucleotides of a strand, or may occur in doublestrand and single strand regions, particularly at termini. The 5′ end orends can be phosphorylated.

It may be possible, e.g., to enhance stability, to include particularbases in overhangs, or to include modified nucleotides or nucleotidesurrogates, in single strand overhangs, e.g., in a 5′ or 3′ overhang, orin both. For example, it can be desirable to include purine nucleotidesin overhangs. In some embodiments all or some of the bases in a 3′ or 5′overhang may be modified, e.g., with a modification described herein.Modifications can include, e.g., the use of modifications at the 2′position of the ribose sugar with modifications that are known in theart, e.g., the use of deoxyribonucleotides, 2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro (2′-F) or2′-O-methyl modified instead of the ribosugar of the nucleobase , andmodifications in the phosphate group, e.g., phosphorothioatemodifications. Overhangs need not be homologous with the targetsequence.

In one embodiment, each residue of the sense strand and antisense strandis independently modified with LNA, HNA, CeNA, 2′-methoxyethyl,2′-O-methyl, 2′-O-allyl, 2′-C-allyl, 2′-deoxy, 2′-hydroxyl, or2′-fluoro. The strands can contain more than one modification. In oneembodiment, each residue of the sense strand and antisense strand isindependently modified with 2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoro.

At least two different modifications are typically present on the sensestrand and antisense strand. Those two modifications may be the2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoro modifications, or others.

In one embodiment, the N_(a) and/or N_(b) comprise modifications of analternating pattern. The term “alternating motif” as used herein refersto a motif having one or more modifications, each modification occurringon alternating nucleotides of one strand. The alternating nucleotide mayrefer to one per every other nucleotide or one per every threenucleotides, or a similar pattern. For example, if A, B and C eachrepresent one type of modification to the nucleotide, the alternatingmotif can be “ABABABABABAB . . . ,” “AABBAABBAABB . . . ,” “AABAABAABAAB. . . ,” “AAABAAABAAAB . . . ,” “AAABBBAAABBB . . . ,” or “ABCABCABCABC. . . ,” etc.

The type of modifications contained in the alternating motif may be thesame or different. For example, if A, B, C, D each represent one type ofmodification on the nucleotide, the alternating pattern, i.e.,modifications on every other nucleotide, may be the same, but each ofthe sense strand or antisense strand can be selected from severalpossibilities of modifications within the alternating motif such as“ABABAB . . .”, “ACACAC . . .” “BDBDBD . . .” or “CDCDCD . . . ,” etc.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent of the invention comprises themodification pattern for the alternating motif on the sense strandrelative to the modification pattern for the alternating motif on theantisense strand is shifted. The shift may be such that the modifiedgroup of nucleotides of the sense strand corresponds to a differentlymodified group of nucleotides of the antisense strand and vice versa.For example, the sense strand when paired with the antisense strand inthe dsRNA duplex, the alternating motif in the sense strand may startwith “ABABAB” from 5′-3′ of the strand and the alternating motif in theantisense strand may start with “BABABA” from 5′-3′of the strand withinthe duplex region. As another example, the alternating motif in thesense strand may start with “AABBAABB” from 5′-3′ of the strand and thealternating motif in the anti senese strand may start with “BBAABBAA”from 5′-3′ of the strand within the duplex region, so that there is acomplete or partial shift of the modification patterns between the sensestrand and the antisense strand.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent comprises the pattern of thealternating motif of 2′-O-methyl modification and 2′-F modification onthe sense strand initially has a shift relative to the pattern of thealternating motif of 2′-O-methyl modification and 2′-F modification onthe antisense strand initially, i.e., the 2′-O-methyl modifiednucleotide on the sense strand base pairs with a 2′-F modifiednucleotide on the antisense strand and vice versa. The 1 position of thesense strand may start with the 2′-F modification, and the 1 position ofthe antisense strand may start with the 2′-O-methyl modification.

The introduction of one or more motifs of three identical modificationson three consecutive nucleotides to the sense strand and/or antisensestrand interrupts the initial modification pattern present in the sensestrand and/or antisense strand. This interruption of the modificationpattern of the sense and/or antisense strand by introducing one or moremotifs of three identical modifications on three consecutive nucleotidesto the sense and/or antisense strand surprisingly enhances the genesilencing acitivty to the target gene.

In one embodiment, when the motif of three identical modifications onthree consecutive nucleotides is introduced to any of the strands, themodification of the nucleotide next to the motif is a differentmodification than the modification of the motif. For example, theportion of the sequence containing the motif is “. . . N_(a)YYYN_(b). .. ,” where “Y” represents the modification of the motif of threeidentical modifications on three consecutive nucleotide, and “N_(a)” and“N_(b)” represent a modification to the nucleotide next to the motif“YYY” that is different than the modification of Y, and where N_(a) andN_(b) can be the same or different modifications. Altnernatively, N_(a)and/or N_(b) may be present or absent when there is a wing modificationpresent.

The RNAi agent may further comprise at least one phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage. The phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage modification may occur on anynucleotide of the sense strand or antisense strand or both strands inany position of the strand. For instance, the internucleotide linkagemodification may occur on every nucleotide on the sense strand and/orantisense strand; each internucleotide linkage modification may occur inan alternating pattern on the sense strand and/or antisense strand; orthe sense strand or antisense strand may contain both internucleotidelinkage modifications in an alternating pattern. The alternating patternof the internucleotide linkage modification on the sense strand may bethe same or different from the antisense strand, and the alternatingpattern of the internucleotide linkage modification on the sense strandmay have a shift relative to the alternating pattern of theinternucleotide linkage modification on the antisense strand. In oneembodiment, a double-standed RNAi agent comprises 6-8phosphorothioateinternucleotide linkages. In one embodiment, the antisense strandcomprises two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkages at the5′-terminus and two phosphorothioate internucleotide linkages at the3′-terminus, and the sense strand comprises at least twophosphorothioate internucleotide linkages at either the 5′-terminus orthe 3′-terminus.

In one embodiment, the RNAi comprises a phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage modification in the overhangregion. For example, the overhang region may contain two nucleotideshaving a phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotide linkagebetween the two nucleotides. Internucleotide linkage modifications alsomay be made to link the overhang nucleotides with the terminal pairednucleotides within the duplex region. For example, at least 2, 3, 4, orall the overhang nucleotides may be linked through phosphorothioate ormethylphosphonate internucleotide linkage, and optionally, there may beadditional phosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotidelinkages linking the overhang nucleotide with a paired nucleotide thatis next to the overhang nucleotide. For instance, there may be at leasttwo phosphorothioate internucleotide linkages between the terminal threenucleotides, in which two of the three nucleotides are overhangnucleotides, and the third is a paired nucleotide next to the overhangnucleotide. These terminal three nucleotides may be at the 3′-end of theantisense strand, the 3′-end of the sense strand, the 5′-end of theantisense strand, and/or the 5′ end of the antisense strand.

In one embodiment, the 2 nucleotide overhang is at the 3′-end of theantisense strand, and there are two phosphorothioate internucleotidelinkages between the terminal three nucleotides, wherein two of thethree nucleotides are the overhang nucleotides, and the third nucleotideis a paired nucleotide next to the overhang nucleotide. Optionally, theRNAi agent may additionally have two phosphorothioate internucleotidelinkages between the terminal three nucleotides at both the 5′-end ofthe sense strand and at the 5′-end of the antisense strand.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent comprises mismatch(es) with thetarget, within the duplex, or combinations thereof. The mistmatch mayoccur in the overhang region or the duplex region. The base pair may beranked on the basis of their propensity to promote dissociation ormelting (e.g., on the free energy of association or dissociation of aparticular pairing, the simplest approach is to examine the pairs on anindividual pair basis, though next neighbor or similar analysis can alsobe used). In terms of promoting dissociation: A:U is preferred over G:C;G:U is preferred over G:C; and I:C is preferred over G:C (I=inosine).Mismatches, e.g., non-canonical or other than canonical pairings (asdescribed elsewhere herein) are preferred over canonical (A:T, A:U, G:C)pairings; and pairings which include a universal base are preferred overcanonical pairings.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent comprises at least one of the first 1,2, 3, 4, or 5 base pairs within the duplex regions from the 5′- end ofthe antisense strand independently selected from the group of: A:U, G:U,I:C, and mismatched pairs, e.g., non-canonical or other than canonicalpairings or pairings which include a universal base, to promote thedissociation of the antisense strand at the 5′-end of the duplex.

In one embodiment, the nucleotide at the 1 position within the duplexregion from the 5′-end in the antisense strand is selected from thegroup consisting of A, dA, dU, U, and dT. Alternatively, at least one ofthe first 1, 2 or 3 base pair within the duplex region from the 5′-endof the antisense strand is an AU base pair. For example, the first basepair within the duplex region from the 5′-end of the antisense strand isan AU base pair.

In another embodiment, the nucleotide at the 3′-end of the sense strandis deoxy-thymine (dT). In another embodiment, the nucleotide at the3′-end of the antisense strand is deoxy-thymine (dT). In one embodiment,there is a short sequence of deoxy-thymine nucleotides, for example, twodT nucleotides on the 3′-end of the sense and/or antisense strand.

In one embodiment, the sense strand sequence may be represented byformula (I):

(I)5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-(X X X )_(i)-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-(Z Z Z )_(j)-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′

wherein:

i and j are each independently 0 or 1;

p and q are each independently 0-6;

each N_(a) independently represents an oligonucleotide sequencecomprising 0-25 modified nucleotides, each sequence comprising at leasttwo differently modified nucleotides;

each N_(b) independently represents an oligonucleotide sequencecomprising 0-10 modified nucleotides;

each n_(p) and n_(q) independently represent an overhang nucleotide;

wherein Nb and Y do not have the same modification; and

XXX, YYY and ZZZ each independently represent one motif of threeidentical modifications on three consecutive nucleotides. Preferably YYYis all 2′-F modified nucleotides.

In one embodiment, the N_(a) and/or N_(b) comprise modifications ofalternating pattern.

In one embodiment, the YYY motif occurs at or near the cleavage site ofthe sense strand. For example, when the RNAi agent has a duplex regionof 17-23 nucleotides in length, the YYY motif can occur at or thevicinity of the cleavage site (e.g.: can occur at positions 6, 7, 8, 7,8, 9, 8, 9, 10, 9, 10, 11, 10, 11,12 or 11, 12, 13) of - the sensestrand, the count starting from the 1^(st) nucleotide, from the 5′-end;or optionally, the count starting at the 1^(st) paired nucleotide withinthe duplex region, from the 5′-end.

In one embodiment, i is 1 and j is 0, or i is 0 and j is 1, or both iand j are 1. The sense strand can therefore be represented by thefollowing formulas:

5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-YYY-N_(b)-ZZZ-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′ (Ib);5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-XXX-N_(b)-YYY-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′ (Ic); or5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-XXX-N_(b)-YYY-N_(b)-ZZZ-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′ (Id).

When the sense strand is represented by formula (Ib), N_(b) representsan oligonucleotide sequence comprising 0-10, 0-7, 0-5, 0-4, 0-2 or 0modified nucleotides. Each N_(a) independently can represent anoligonucleotide sequence comprising 2-20, 2-15, or 2-10 modifiednucleotides.

When the sense strand is represented as formula (Ic), N_(b) representsan oligonucleotide sequence comprising 0-10, 0-7, 0-10, 0-7, 0-5, 0-4,0-2 or 0 modified nucleotides. Each N_(a) can independently represent anoligonucleotide sequence comprising 2-20, 2-15, or 2-10 modifiednucleotides.

When the sense strand is represented as formula (Id), each N_(b)independently represents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 0-10,0-7, 0-5, 0-4, 0-2 or 0 modified nucleotides. Preferably, N_(b) is 0, 1,2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 Each N_(a) can independently represent anoligonucleotide sequence comprising 2-20, 2-15, or 2-10 modifiednucleotides.

Each of X, Y and Z may be the same or different from each other.

In other embodiments, i is 0 and j is 0, and the sense strand may berepresented by the formula:

5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-YYY-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′ (Ia).

When the sense strand is represented by formula (Ia), each N_(a)independently can represent an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 2-20,2-15, or 2-10 modified nucleotides.

In one embodiment, the antisense strand sequence of the RNAi may berepresented by formula (II):

(II)5′ n_(q′)-N_(a)′-(Z′Z′Z′)_(k)-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-(X′X′X′)_(l)-N′_(a)-n_(p)′3′

wherein:

k and l are each independently 0 or 1;

p′ and q′ are each independently 0-6;

each N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotide sequencecomprising 0-25 modified nucleotides, each sequence comprising at leasttwo differently modified nucleotides;

each N_(b)′ independently represents an oligonucleotide sequencecomprising 0-10 modified nucleotides;

each n_(p)′ and n_(q)′ independently represent an overhang nucleotide;

wherein N_(b)′ and Y′ do not have the same modification; and

X′X′X′, Y′Y′Y′ and Z′Z′Z′ each independently represent one motif ofthree identical modifications on three consecutive nucleotides.

In one embodiment, the N_(a)′ and/or N_(b)′ comprise modifications ofalternating pattern. The Y′Y′Y′ motif occurs at or near the cleavagesite of the antisense strand. For example, when the RNAi agent has aduplex region of 17-23 nucleotide in length, the Y′Y′Y′ motif can occurat positions 9, 10, 11;10, 11, 12; 11, 12, 13; 12, 13, 14 ; or 13, 14,15 of the antisense strand, with the count starting from the 1s^(t)nucleotide, from the 5′-end; or optionally, the count starting at the1^(st) paired nucleotide within the duplex region, from the 5′-end.Preferably, the Y′Y′Y′ motif occurs at positions 11, 12, 13.

In one embodiment, Y′Y′Y′ motif is all 2′-OMe modified nucleotides.

In one embodiment, k is 1 and l is 0, or k is 0 and l is 1, or both kand l are 1.

The antisense strand can therefore be represented by the followingformulas:

(IIb) 5′ n_(q′)-N_(a)′-Z′Z′Z′-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(a)′-n_(p′) 3′; (IIc)5′ n_(q′)-N_(a)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-X′X′X′-n_(p′) 3′; or (IId)5′ n_(q′)-N_(a)′-Z′Z′Z′-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-X′X′X′-N_(a)′-n_(p′) 3′.

When the antisense strand is represented by formula (Ilb), N_(b)′represents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 0-10, 0-7, 0-10, 0-7,0-5, 0-4, 0-2 or 0 modified nucleotides. Each N_(a)′ independentlyrepresents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 2-20, 2-15, or 2-10modified nucleotides.

When the antisense strand is represented as formula (IIc), N_(b)′represents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 0-10, 0-7, 0-10, 0-7,0-5, 0-4, 0-2 or 0 modified nucleotides. Each N_(a)′ independentlyrepresents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 2-20, 2-15, or 2-10modified nucleotides.

When the antisense strand is represented as formula (IId), each N_(b)′independently represents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 0-10,0-7, 0-10, 0-7, 0-5, 0-4, 0-2 or 0 modified nucleotides. Each N_(a)′independently represents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 2-20,2-15, or 2-10 modified nucleotides. Preferably, N_(b) is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4,5 or 6.

In other embodiments, k is 0 and 1 is 0 and the antisense strand may berepresented by the formula:

5′ n_(p′)-N_(a′)-Y′Y′Y′-N_(a′)-n_(q′) 3′ (Ia).

When the antisense strand is represented as formula (IIa), each N_(a)′independently represents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 2-20,2-15, or 2-10 modified nucleotides.

Each of X′, Y′ and Z′ may be the same or different from each other.

Each nucleotide of the sense strand and antisense strand may beindependently modified with LNA, HNA, CeNA, 2′-methoxyethyl,2′-O-methyl, 2′-O-allyl, 2′-C-allyl, 2′-hydroxyl, or 2′-fluoro. Forexample, each nucleotide of the sense strand and antisense strand isindependently modified with 2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoro. Each X, Y, Z, X′,Y′ and Z′, in particular, may represent a 2′-O-methyl modification or a2′-fluoro modification.

In one embodiment, the sense strand of the RNAi agent may contain YYYmotif occurring at 9, 10 and 11 positions of the strand when the duplexregion is 21 nt, the count starting from the 1^(st) nucleotide from the5′-end, or optionally, the count starting at the 1^(st) pairednucleotide within the duplex region, from the 5′-end; and Y represents2′-F modification. The sense strand may additionally contain XXX motifor ZZZ motifs as wing modifications at the opposite end of the duplexregion; and XXX and ZZZ each independently represents a 2′-OMemodification or 2′-F modification.

In one embodiment the antisense strand may contain Y′Y′Y′ motifoccurring at positions 11, 12, 13 of the strand, the count starting fromthe 1^(st) nucleotide from the 5′-end, or optionally, the count startingat the 1^(st) paired nucleotide within the duplex region, from the5′-end; and Y′ represents 2′-O-methyl modification. The antisense strandmay additionally contain X′X′X′ motif or Z′Z′Z′ motifs as wingmodifications at the opposite end of the duplex region; and X′X′X′ andZ′Z′Z′ each independently represents a 2′-OMe modification or 2′-Fmodification.

The sense strand represented by any one of the above formulas (Ia),(Ib), (Ic), and (Id) forms a duplex with a antisense strand beingrepresented by any one of formulas (IIa), (IIb), (IIc), and (IId),respectively.

Accordingly, the RNAi agents for use in the methods of the invention maycomprise a sense strand and an antisense strand, each strand having 14to 30 nucleotides, the RNAi duplex represented by formula (III):

(III) sense:5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-(X X X)_(i)-Nb-Y Y Y-N_(b)-(Z Z Z)_(j)-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′antisense:3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-(X′X′X′)_(k)-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-(Z′Z′Z′)_(l)-N_(a)′-n_(q)′ 5′

wherein:

i, j, k, and l are each independently 0 or 1;

p, p′, q, and q′ are each independently 0-6;

each N_(a) and N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-25 modified nucleotides, each sequence comprisingat least two differently modified nucleotides;

each N_(b) and N_(b)′ independently represents an oligonucleotidesequence comprising 0-10 modified nucleotides;

wherein

each n_(p)′, n_(p), n_(q)′, and n_(q), each of which may or may not bepresent, independently represents an overhang nucleotide; and

XXX, YYY, ZZZ, X′X′X′, Y′Y′Y′, and Z′Z′Z′ each independently representone motif of three identical modifications on three consecutivenucleotides.

In one embodiment, i is 0 and j is 0; or i is 1 and j is 0; or i is 0and j is 1; or both i and j are 0; or both i and j are 1. In anotherembodiment, k is 0 and l is 0; or k is 1 and l is 0; k is 0 and l is 1;or both k and l are 0; or both k and l are 1.

Exemplary combinations of the sense strand and antisense strand forminga RNAi duplex include the formulas below:

(IIIa) 5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-Y Y Y-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(a)′n_(q)′ 5′ (IIIb)5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-Z Z Z-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-Z′Z′Z′-N_(a)′n_(q)′ 5′ (IIIc)5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-X X X-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-X′X′X′-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(a)′-n_(q)′ 5′ (IIId)5′ n_(p)-N_(a)-X X X-N_(b)-Y Y Y-N_(b)-Z Z Z-N_(a)-n_(q) 3′3′ n_(p)′-N_(a)′-X′X′X′-N_(b)′-Y′Y′Y′-N_(b)′-Z′Z′Z′-N_(a)-n_(q)′ 5′

When the RNAi agent is represented by formula (IIIa), each N_(a)independently represents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 2-20,2-15, or 2-10 modified nucleotides.

When the RNAi agent is represented by formula (IIIb), each N_(b)independently represents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 1-10,1-7, 1-5 or 1-4 modified nucleotides. Each N_(a) independentlyrepresents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 2-20, 2-15, or 2-10modified nucleotides.

When the RNAi agent is represented as formula (IIIc), each N_(b), N_(b)′independently represents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 0-10,0-7, 0-10, 0-7, 0-5, 0-4, 0-2 or 0 modified nucleotides. Each N_(a)independently represents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 2-20,2-15, or 2-10 modified nucleotides.

When the RNAi agent is represented as formula (IIId), each N_(b), N_(b)′independently represents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising 0-10,0-7, 0-10, 0-7, 0-5, 0-4, 0-2 or 0modified nucleotides. Each N_(a),N_(a)′ independently represents an oligonucleotide sequence comprising2-20, 2-15, or 2-10 modified nucleotides. Each of N_(a), N_(a)′, N_(b)and N_(b)′, independently comprises modifications of alternatingpattern.

Each of X, Y and Z in formulas (III), (IIIa), (IIIb), (IIIc), and (IIId)may be the same or different from each other.

When the RNAi agent is represented by formula (III), (IIIa), (IIIb),(IIIc), and (IIId), at least one of the Y nucleotides may form a basepair with one of the Y′ nucleotides. Alternatively, at least two of theY nucleotides form base pairs with the corresponding Y′ nucleotides; orall three of the Y nucleotides all form base pairs with thecorresponding Y′ nucleotides.

When the RNAi agent is represented by formula (IIIb) or (IIId), at leastone of the Z nucleotides may form a base pair with one of the Z′nucleotides. Alternatively, at least two of the Z nucleotides form basepairs with the corresponding Z′ nucleotides; or all three of the Znucleotides all form base pairs with the corresponding Z′ nucleotides.

When the RNAi agent is represented as formula (IIIc) or (IIId), at leastone of the X nucleotides may form a base pair with one of the X′nucleotides. Alternatively, at least two of the X nucleotides form basepairs with the corresponding X′ nucleotides; or all three of the Xnucleotides all form base pairs with the corresponding X′ nucleotides.

In one embodiment, the modification on the Y nucleotide is differentthan the modification on the Y′ nucleotide, the modification on the Znucleotide is different than the modification on the Z′ nucleotide,and/or the modification on the X nucleotide is different than themodification on the X′ nucleotide.

In one embodiment, when the RNAi agent is represented by formula (IIId),the N_(a) modifications are 2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoro modifications. Inanother embodiment, when the RNAi agent is represented by formula(IIId), the N_(a) modifications are 2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoromodifications and n_(p)′>0 and at least one n_(p)′ is linked to aneighboring nucleotide a via phosphorothioate linkage. In yet anotherembodiment, when the RNAi agent is represented by formula (IIId), theN_(a) modifications are 2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoro modifications ,n_(p)′>0 and at least one n_(p)′ is linked to a neighboring nucleotidevia phosphorothioate linkage, and the sense strand is conjugated to oneor more GalNAc derivatives attached through a bivalent or trivalentbranched linker (described below). In another embodiment, when the RNAiagent is represented by formula (IIId), the N_(a) modifications are2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoro modifications , n_(p)′>0 and at least onen_(p)′ is linked to a neighboring nucleotide via phosphorothioatelinkage, the sense strand comprises at least one phosphorothioatelinkage, and the sense strand is conjugated to one or more GalNAcderivatives attached through a bivalent or trivalent branched linker.

In one embodiment, when the RNAi agent is represented by formula (IIIa),the N_(a) modifications are 2′-O-methyl or 2′-fluoro modifications ,n_(p)′>0 and at least one n_(p)′ is linked to a neighboring nucleotidevia phosphorothioate linkage, the sense strand comprises at least onephosphorothioate linkage, and the sense strand is conjugated to one ormore GalNAc derivatives attached through a bivalent or trivalentbranched linker.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent is a multimer containing at least twoduplexes represented by formula (III), (IIIa), (IIIb), (IIIc), and(IIId), wherein the duplexes are connected by a linker. The linker canbe cleavable or non-cleavable. Optionally, the multimer furthercomprises a ligand. Each of the duplexes can target the same gene or twodifferent genes; or each of the duplexes can target same gene at twodifferent target sites.

In one embodiment, the RNAi agent is a multimer containing three, four,five, six or more duplexes represented by formula (III), (IIIa), (IIIb),(IIIc), and (IIId), wherein the duplexes are connected by a linker. Thelinker can be cleavable or non-cleavable. Optionally, the multimerfurther comprises a ligand. Each of the duplexes can target the samegene or two different genes; or each of the duplexes can target samegene at two different target sites.

In one embodiment, two RNAi agents represented by formula (III), (IIIa),(IIIb), (IIIc), and (IIId) are linked to each other at the 5′ end, andone or both of the 3′ ends and are optionally conjugated to to a ligand.Each of the agents can target the same gene or two different genes; oreach of the agents can target same gene at two different target sites.

Various publications describe multimeric RNAi agents that can be used inthe methods of the invention. Such publications include WO2007/091269,U.S. Pat. No. 7,858,769, WO2010/141511, WO2007/117686, WO2009/014887 andWO2011/031520 the entire contents of each of which are herebyincorporated herein by reference.

As described in more detail below, the RNAi agent that containsconjugations of one or more carbohydrate moieties to a RNAi agent canoptimize one or more properties of the RNAi agent. In many cases, thecarbohydrate moiety will be attached to a modified subunit of the RNAiagent. For example, the ribose sugar of one or more ribonucleotidesubunits of a dsRNA agent can be replaced with another moiety, e.g., anon-carbohydrate (preferably cyclic) carrier to which is attached acarbohydrate ligand. A ribonucleotide subunit in which the ribose sugarof the subunit has been so replaced is referred to herein as a ribosereplacement modification subunit (RRMS). A cyclic carrier may be acarbocyclic ring system, i.e., all ring atoms are carbon atoms, or aheterocyclic ring system, i.e., one or more ring atoms may be aheteroatom, e.g., nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur. The cyclic carrier may be amonocyclic ring system, or may contain two or more rings, e.g. fusedrings. The cyclic carrier may be a fully saturated ring system, or itmay contain one or more double bonds.

The ligand may be attached to the polynucleotide via a carrier. Thecarriers include (i) at least one “backbone attachment point,”preferably two “backbone attachment points” and (ii) at least one“tethering attachment point.” A “backbone attachment point” as usedherein refers to a functional group, e.g. a hydroxyl group, orgenerally, a bond available for, and that is suitable for incorporationof the carrier into the backbone, e.g., the phosphate, or modifiedphosphate, e.g., sulfur containing, backbone, of a ribonucleic acid. A“tethering attachment point” (TAP) in some embodiments refers to aconstituent ring atom of the cyclic carrier, e.g., a carbon atom or aheteroatom (distinct from an atom which provides a backbone attachmentpoint), that connects a selected moiety. The moiety can be, e.g., acarbohydrate, e.g. monosaccharide, disaccharide, trisaccharide,tetrasaccharide, oligosaccharide and polysaccharide. Optionally, theselected moiety is connected by an intervening tether to the cycliccarrier. Thus, the cyclic carrier will often include a functional group,e.g., an amino group, or generally, provide a bond, that is suitable forincorporation or tethering of another chemical entity, e.g., a ligand tothe constituent ring.

The RNAi agents may be conjugated to a ligand via a carrier, wherein thecarrier can be cyclic group or acyclic group; preferably, the cyclicgroup is selected from pyrrolidinyl, pyrazolinyl, pyrazolidinyl,imidazolinyl, imidazolidinyl, piperidinyl, piperazinyl, [1,3]dioxolane,oxazolidinyl, isoxazolidinyl, morpholinyl, thiazolidinyl,isothiazolidinyl, quinoxalinyl, pyridazinonyl, tetrahydrofuryl and anddecalin; preferably, the acyclic group is selected from serinol backboneor diethanolamine backbone.

In certain specific embodiments, the RNAi agent for use in the methodsof the invention is an agent selected from the group of agents listed inany one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23. These agents mayfurther comprise a ligand.

IV. iRNAs Conjugated to Ligands

Another modification of the RNA of an iRNA of the invention involveschemically linking to the RNA one or more ligands, moieties orconjugates that enhance the activity, cellular distribution or cellularuptake of the iRNA. Such moieties include but are not limited to lipidmoieties such as a cholesterol moiety (Letsinger et al., Proc. Natl.Acid. Sci. USA, 1989, 86: 6553-6556), cholic acid (Manoharan et al.,Biorg. Med. Chem. Let., 1994, 4:1053-1060), a thioether, e.g.,beryl-S-tritylthiol (Manoharan et al., Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci., 1992,660:306-309; Manoharan et al., Biorg. Med. Chem. Let., 1993,3:2765-2770), a thiocholesterol (Oberhauser et al., Nucl. Acids Res.,1992, 20:533-538), an aliphatic chain, e.g., dodecandiol or undecylresidues (Saison-Behmoaras et al., EMBO J, 1991, 10:1111-1118; Kabanovet al., FEBS Lett., 1990, 259:327-330; Svinarchuk et al., Biochimie,1993, 75:49-54), a phospholipid, e.g., di-hexadecyl-rac-glycerol ortriethyl-ammonium 1,2-di-O-hexadecyl-rac-glycero-3-phosphonate(Manoharan et al., Tetrahedron Lett., 1995, 36:3651-3654; Shea et al.,Nucl. Acids Res., 1990, 18:3777-3783), a polyamine or a polyethyleneglycol chain (Manoharan et al., Nucleosides & Nucleotides, 1995,14:969-973), or adamantane acetic acid (Manoharan et al., TetrahedronLett., 1995, 36:3651-3654), a palmityl moiety (Mishra et al., Biochim.Biophys. Acta, 1995, 1264:229-237), or an octadecylamine orhexylamino-carbonyloxycholesterol moiety (Crooke et al., J. Pharmacol.Exp. Ther., 1996, 277:923-937).

In one embodiment, a ligand alters the distribution, targeting orlifetime of an iRNA agent into which it is incorporated. In preferredembodiments a ligand provides an enhanced affinity for a selectedtarget, e.g., molecule, cell or cell type, compartment, e.g., a cellularor organ compartment, tissue, organ or region of the body, as, e.g.,compared to a species absent such a ligand. Preferred ligands will nottake part in duplex pairing in a duplexed nucleic acid.

Ligands can include a naturally occurring substance, such as a protein(e.g., human serum albumin (HSA), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), orglobulin); carbohydrate (e.g., a dextran, pullulan, chitin, chitosan,inulin, cyclodextrin, N-acetylgalactosamine, or hyaluronic acid); or alipid. The ligand can also be a recombinant or synthetic molecule, suchas a synthetic polymer, e.g., a synthetic polyamino acid. Examples ofpolyamino acids include polyamino acid is a polylysine (PLL), polyL-aspartic acid, poly L-glutamic acid, styrene-maleic acid anhydridecopolymer, poly(L-lactide-co-glycolied) copolymer, divinyl ether-maleicanhydride copolymer, N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide copolymer (HMPA),polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyurethane,poly(2-ethylacryllic acid), N-isopropylacrylamide polymers, orpolyphosphazine. Example of polyamines include: polyethylenimine,polylysine (PLL), spermine, spermidine, polyamine,pseudopeptide-polyamine, peptidomimetic polyamine, dendrimer polyamine,arginine, amidine, protamine, cationic lipid, cationic porphyrin,quaternary salt of a polyamine, or an alpha helical peptide.

Ligands can also include targeting groups, e.g., a cell or tissuetargeting agent, e.g., a lectin, glycoprotein, lipid or protein, e.g.,an antibody, that binds to a specified cell type such as a kidney cell.A targeting group can be a thyrotropin, melanotropin, lectin,glycoprotein, surfactant protein A, Mucin carbohydrate, multivalentlactose, multivalent galactose, N-acetyl-galactosamine,N-acetyl-gulucoseamine multivalent mannose, multivalent fucose,glycosylated polyaminoacids, multivalent galactose, transferrin,bisphosphonate, polyglutamate, polyaspartate, a lipid, cholesterol, asteroid, bile acid, folate, vitamin B12, vitamin A, biotin, or an RGDpeptide or RGD peptide mimetic.

Other examples of ligands include dyes, intercalating agents (e.g.acridines), cross-linkers (e.g. psoralene, mitomycin C), porphyrins(TPPC4, texaphyrin, Sapphyrin), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (e.g.,phenazine, dihydrophenazine), artificial endonucleases (e.g. EDTA),lipophilic molecules, e.g., cholesterol, cholic acid, adamantane aceticacid, 1-pyrene butyric acid, dihydrotestosterone,1,3-Bis-O(hexadecyl)glycerol, geranyloxyhexyl group, hexadecylglycerol,borneol, menthol, 1,3-propanediol, heptadecyl group, palmitic acid,myristic acid, O3-(oleoyl)lithocholic acid, O3-(oleoyl)cholenic acid,dimethoxytrityl, or phenoxazine)and peptide conjugates (e.g.,antennapedia peptide, Tat peptide), alkylating agents, phosphate, amino,mercapto, PEG (e.g., PEG-40K), MPEG, [MPEG]₂, polyamino, alkyl,substituted alkyl, radiolabeled markers, enzymes, haptens (e.g. biotin),transport/absorption facilitators (e.g., aspirin, vitamin E, folicacid), synthetic ribonucleases (e.g., imidazole, bisimidazole,histamine, imidazole clusters, acridine-imidazole conjugates, Eu3+complexes of tetraazamacrocycles), dinitrophenyl, HRP, or AP.

Ligands can be proteins, e.g., glycoproteins, or peptides, e.g.,molecules having a specific affinity for a co-ligand, or antibodiese.g., an antibody, that binds to a specified cell type such as a hepaticcell. Ligands can also include hormones and hormone receptors. They canalso include non-peptidic species, such as lipids, lectins,carbohydrates, vitamins, cofactors, multivalent lactose, multivalentgalactose, N-acetyl-galactosamine, N-acetyl-gulucosamine multivalentmannose, or multivalent fucose. The ligand can be, for example, alipopolysaccharide, an activator of p38 MAP kinase, or an activator ofNF-κB.

The ligand can be a substance, e.g., a drug, which can increase theuptake of the iRNA agent into the cell, for example, by disrupting thecell's cytoskeleton, e.g., by disrupting the cell's microtubules,microfilaments, and/or intermediate filaments. The drug can be, forexample, taxon, vincristine, vinblastine, cytochalasin, nocodazole,japlakinolide, latrunculin A, phalloidin, swinholide A, indanocine, ormyoservin.

In some embodiments, a ligand attached to an iRNA as described hereinacts as a pharmacokinetic modulator (PK modulator). PK modulatorsinclude lipophiles, bile acids, steroids, phospholipid analogues,peptides, protein binding agents, PEG, vitamins etc. Exemplary PKmodulators include, but are not limited to, cholesterol, fatty acids,cholic acid, lithocholic acid, dialkylglycerides, diacylglyceride,phospholipids, sphingolipids, naproxen, ibuprofen, vitamin E, biotinetc. Oligonucleotides that comprise a number of phosphorothioatelinkages are also known to bind to serum protein, thus shortoligonucleotides, e.g., oligonucleotides of about 5 bases, 10 bases, 15bases or 20 bases, comprising multiple of phosphorothioate linkages inthe backbone are also amenable to the present invention as ligands (e.g.as PK modulating ligands). In addition, aptamers that bind serumcomponents (e.g. serum proteins) are also suitable for use as PKmodulating ligands in the embodiments described herein.

Ligand-conjugated oligonucleotides of the invention may be synthesizedby the use of an oligonucleotide that bears a pendant reactivefunctionality, such as that derived from the attachment of a linkingmolecule onto the oligonucleotide (described below). This reactiveoligonucleotide may be reacted directly with commercially-availableligands, ligands that are synthesized bearing any of a variety ofprotecting groups, or ligands that have a linking moiety attachedthereto.

The oligonucleotides used in the conjugates of the present invention maybe conveniently and routinely made through the well-known technique ofsolid-phase synthesis. Equipment for such synthesis is sold by severalvendors including, for example, Applied Biosystems (Foster City,Calif.). Any other means for such synthesis known in the art mayadditionally or alternatively be employed. It is also known to usesimilar techniques to prepare other oligonucleotides, such as thephosphorothioates and alkylated derivatives.

In the ligand-conjugated oligonucleotides and ligand-molecule bearingsequence-specific linked nucleosides of the present invention, theoligonucleotides and oligonucleosides may be assembled on a suitable DNAsynthesizer utilizing standard nucleotide or nucleoside precursors, ornucleotide or nucleoside conjugate precursors that already bear thelinking moiety, ligand-nucleotide or nucleoside-conjugate precursorsthat already bear the ligand molecule, or non-nucleoside ligand-bearingbuilding blocks.

When using nucleotide-conjugate precursors that already bear a linkingmoiety, the synthesis of the sequence-specific linked nucleosides istypically completed, and the ligand molecule is then reacted with thelinking moiety to form the ligand-conjugated oligonucleotide. In someembodiments, the oligonucleotides or linked nucleosides of the presentinvention are synthesized by an automated synthesizer usingphosphoramidites derived from ligand-nucleoside conjugates in additionto the standard phosphoramidites and non-standard phosphoramidites thatare commercially available and routinely used in oligonucleotidesynthesis.

A. Lipid Conjugates

In one embodiment, the ligand or conjugate is a lipid or lipid-basedmolecule. Such a lipid or lipid-based molecule preferably binds a serumprotein, e.g., human serum albumin (HSA). An HSA binding ligand allowsfor distribution of the conjugate to a target tissue, e.g., a non-kidneytarget tissue of the body. For example, the target tissue can be theliver, including parenchymal cells of the liver. Other molecules thatcan bind HSA can also be used as ligands. For example, naproxen oraspirin can be used. A lipid or lipid-based ligand can (a) increaseresistance to degradation of the conjugate, (b) increase targeting ortransport into a target cell or cell membrane, and/or (c) can be used toadjust binding to a serum protein, e.g., HSA.

A lipid based ligand can be used to inhibit, e.g., control the bindingof the conjugate to a target tissue. For example, a lipid or lipid-basedligand that binds to HSA more strongly will be less likely to betargeted to the kidney and therefore less likely to be cleared from thebody. A lipid or lipid-based ligand that binds to HSA less strongly canbe used to target the conjugate to the kidney.

In a preferred embodiment, the lipid based ligand binds HSA. Preferably,it binds HSA with a sufficient affinity such that the conjugate will bepreferably distributed to a non-kidney tissue. However, it is preferredthat the affinity not be so strong that the HSA-ligand binding cannot bereversed.

In another preferred embodiment, the lipid based ligand binds HSA weaklyor not at all, such that the conjugate will be preferably distributed tothe kidney. Other moieties that target to kidney cells can also be usedin place of or in addition to the lipid based ligand.

In another aspect, the ligand is a moiety, e.g., a vitamin, which istaken up by a target cell, e.g., a proliferating cell. These areparticularly useful for treating disorders characterized by unwantedcell proliferation, e.g., of the malignant or non-malignant type, e.g.,cancer cells. Exemplary vitamins include vitamin A, E, and K. Otherexemplary vitamins include are B vitamin, e.g., folic acid, B12,riboflavin, biotin, pyridoxal or other vitamins or nutrients taken up bytarget cells such as liver cells. Also included are HSA and low densitylipoprotein (LDL).

B. Cell Permeation Agents

In another aspect, the ligand is a cell-permeation agent, preferably ahelical cell-permeation agent. Preferably, the agent is amphipathic. Anexemplary agent is a peptide such as tat or antennopedia. If the agentis a peptide, it can be modified, including a peptidylmimetic,invertomers, non-peptide or pseudo-peptide linkages, and use of D-aminoacids. The helical agent is preferably an alpha-helical agent, whichpreferably has a lipophilic and a lipophobic phase.

The ligand can be a peptide or peptidomimetic. A peptidomimetic (alsoreferred to herein as an oligopeptidomimetic) is a molecule capable offolding into a defined three-dimensional structure similar to a naturalpeptide. The attachment of peptide and peptidomimetics to iRNA agentscan affect pharmacokinetic distribution of the iRNA, such as byenhancing cellular recognition and absorption. The peptide orpeptidomimetic moiety can be about 5-50 amino acids long, e.g., about 5,10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50 amino acids long.

A peptide or peptidomimetic can be, for example, a cell permeationpeptide, cationic peptide, amphipathic peptide, or hydrophobic peptide(e.g., consisting primarily of Tyr, Trp or Phe). The peptide moiety canbe a dendrimer peptide, constrained peptide or crosslinked peptide. Inanother alternative, the peptide moiety can include a hydrophobicmembrane translocation sequence (MTS). An exemplary hydrophobicMTS-containing peptide is RFGF having the amino acid sequenceAAVALLPAVLLALLAP (SEQ ID NO: 9). An RFGF analogue (e.g., amino acidsequence AALLPVLLAAP (SEQ ID NO: 10) containing a hydrophobic MTS canalso be a targeting moiety. The peptide moiety can be a “delivery”peptide, which can carry large polar molecules including peptides,oligonucleotides, and protein across cell membranes. For example,sequences from the HIV Tat protein (GRKKRRQRRRPPQ (SEQ ID NO: 11) andthe Drosophila Antennapedia protein (RQIKIWFQNRRMKWKK (SEQ ID NO: 12)have been found to be capable of functioning as delivery peptides. Apeptide or peptidomimetic can be encoded by a random sequence of DNA,such as a peptide identified from a phage-display library, orone-bead-one-compound (OBOC) combinatorial library (Lam et al., Nature,354:82-84, 1991). Examples of a peptide or peptidomimetic tethered to adsRNA agent via an incorporated monomer unit for cell targeting purposesis an arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD)-peptide, or RGD mimic. Apeptide moiety can range in length from about 5 amino acids to about 40amino acids. The peptide moieties can have a structural modification,such as to increase stability or direct conformational properties. Anyof the structural modifications described below can be utilized.

An RGD peptide for use in the compositions and methods of the inventionmay be linear or cyclic, and may be modified, e.g., glycosylated ormethylated, to facilitate targeting to a specific tissue(s).RGD-containing peptides and peptidiomimemtics may include D-amino acids,as well as synthetic RGD mimics. In addition to RGD, one can use othermoieties that target the integrin ligand. Preferred conjugates of thisligand target PECAM-1 or VEGF.

A “cell permeation peptide” is capable of permeating a cell, e.g., amicrobial cell, such as a bacterial or fungal cell, or a mammalian cell,such as a human cell. A microbial cell-permeating peptide can be, forexample, a a-helical linear peptide (e.g., LL-37 or Ceropin P1), adisulfide bond-containing peptide (e.g., α-defensin, β-defensin orbactenecin), or a peptide containing only one or two dominating aminoacids (e.g., PR-39 or indolicidin). A cell permeation peptide can alsoinclude a nuclear localization signal (NLS). For example, a cellpermeation peptide can be a bipartite amphipathic peptide, such as MPG,which is derived from the fusion peptide domain of HIV-1 gp41 and theNLS of SV40 large T antigen (Simeoni et al., Nucl. Acids Res.31:2717-2724, 2003).

C. Carbohydrate Conjugates

In some embodiments of the compositions and methods of the invention, aniRNA oligonucleotide further comprises a carbohydrate. The carbohydrateconjugated iRNA are advantageous for the in vivo delivery of nucleicacids, as well as compositions suitable for in vivo therapeutic use, asdescribed herein. As used herein, “carbohydrate” refers to a compoundwhich is either a carbohydrate per se made up of one or moremonosaccharide units having at least 6 carbon atoms (which can belinear, branched or cyclic) with an oxygen, nitrogen or sulfur atombonded to each carbon atom; or a compound having as a part thereof acarbohydrate moiety made up of one or more monosaccharide units eachhaving at least six carbon atoms (which can be linear, branched orcyclic), with an oxygen, nitrogen or sulfur atom bonded to each carbonatom. Representative carbohydrates include the sugars (mono-, di-, tri-and oligosaccharides containing from about 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9monosaccharide units), and polysaccharides such as starches, glycogen,cellulose and polysaccharide gums. Specific monosaccharides include C5and above (e.g., C5, C6, C7, or C8) sugars; di- and trisaccharidesinclude sugars having two or three monosaccharide units (e.g., C5, C6,C7, or C8).

In one embodiment, a carbohydrate conjugate for use in the compositionsand methods of the invention is a monosaccharide. In one embodiment, themonosaccharide is an N-acetylgalactosamine, such as

In another embodiment, a carbohydrate conjugate for use in thecompositions and methods of the invention is selected from the groupconsisting of:

Another representative carbohydrate conjugate for use in the embodimentsdescribed herein includes, but is not limited to

when one of X or Y is an oligonucleotide, the other is a hydrogen.

In some embodiments, the carbohydrate conjugate further comprises one ormore additional ligands as described above, such as, but not limited to,a PK modulator and/or a cell permeation peptide.

D. Linkers

In some embodiments, the conjugate or ligand described herein can beattached to an iRNA oligonucleotide with various linkers that can becleavable or non-cleavable.

The term “linker” or “linking group” means an organic moiety thatconnects two parts of a compound, e.g., covalently attaches two parts ofa compound. Linkers typically comprise a direct bond or an atom such asoxygen or sulfur, a unit such as NR8, C(O), C(O)NH, SO, SO₂, SO₂NH or achain of atoms, such as, but not limited to, substituted orunsubstituted alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkenyl, substitutedor unsubstituted alkynyl, arylalkyl, arylalkenyl, arylalkynyl,heteroarylalkyl, heteroarylalkenyl, heteroarylalkynyl,heterocyclylalkyl, heterocyclylalkenyl, heterocyclylalkynyl, aryl,heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, alkylarylalkyl,alkylarylalkenyl, alkylarylalkynyl, alkenylarylalkyl,alkenylarylalkenyl, alkenylarylalkynyl, alkynylarylalkyl,alkynylarylalkenyl, alkynylarylalkynyl, alkylheteroarylalkyl,alkylheteroarylalkenyl, alkylheteroarylalkynyl, alkenylheteroarylalkyl,alkenylheteroarylalkenyl, alkenylheteroarylalkynyl,alkynylheteroarylalkyl, alkynylheteroarylalkenyl,alkynylheteroarylalkynyl, alkylheterocyclylalkyl,alkylheterocyclylalkenyl, alkylhererocyclylalkynyl,alkenylheterocyclylalkyl, alkenylheterocyclylalkenyl,alkenylheterocyclylalkynyl, alkynylheterocyclylalkyl,alkynylheterocyclylalkenyl, alkynylheterocyclylalkynyl, alkylaryl,alkenylaryl, alkynylaryl, alkylheteroaryl, alkenylheteroaryl,alkynylhereroaryl, which one or more methylenes can be interrupted orterminated by O, S, S(O), SO₂, N(R8), C(O), substituted or unsubstitutedaryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted orunsubstituted heterocyclic; where R8 is hydrogen, acyl, aliphatic orsubstituted aliphatic. In one embodiment, the linker is between about1-24 atoms, 2-24, 3-24, 4-24, 5-24, 6-24, 6-18, 7-18, 8-18 atoms, 7-17,8-17, 6-16, 7-16, or 8-16 atoms.

A cleavable linking group is one which is sufficiently stable outsidethe cell, but which upon entry into a target cell is cleaved to releasethe two parts the linker is holding together. In a preferred embodiment,the cleavable linking group is cleaved at least about 10 times, 20,times, 30 times, 40 times, 50 times, 60 times, 70 times, 80 times, 90times or more, or at least about 100 times faster in a target cell orunder a first reference condition (which can, e.g., be selected to mimicor represent intracellular conditions) than in the blood of a subject,or under a second reference condition (which can, e.g., be selected tomimic or represent conditions found in the blood or serum).

Cleavable linking groups are susceptible to cleavage agents, e.g., pH,redox potential or the presence of degradative molecules. Generally,cleavage agents are more prevalent or found at higher levels oractivities inside cells than in serum or blood. Examples of suchdegradative agents include: redox agents which are selected forparticular substrates or which have no substrate specificity, including,e.g., oxidative or reductive enzymes or reductive agents such asmercaptans, present in cells, that can degrade a redox cleavable linkinggroup by reduction; esterases; endosomes or agents that can create anacidic environment, e.g., those that result in a pH of five or lower;enzymes that can hydrolyze or degrade an acid cleavable linking group byacting as a general acid, peptidases (which can be substrate specific),and phosphatases.

A cleavable linkage group, such as a disulfide bond can be susceptibleto pH. The pH of human serum is 7.4, while the average intracellular pHis slightly lower, ranging from about 7.1-7.3. Endosomes have a moreacidic pH, in the range of 5.5-6.0, and lysosomes have an even moreacidic pH at around 5.0. Some linkers will have a cleavable linkinggroup that is cleaved at a preferred pH, thereby releasing a cationiclipid from the ligand inside the cell, or into the desired compartmentof the cell.

A linker can include a cleavable linking group that is cleavable by aparticular enzyme. The type of cleavable linking group incorporated intoa linker can depend on the cell to be targeted. For example, aliver-targeting ligand can be linked to a cationic lipid through alinker that includes an ester group. Liver cells are rich in esterases,and therefore the linker will be cleaved more efficiently in liver cellsthan in cell types that are not esterase-rich. Other cell-types rich inesterases include cells of the lung, renal cortex, and testis.

Linkers that contain peptide bonds can be used when targeting cell typesrich in peptidases, such as liver cells and synoviocytes.

In general, the suitability of a candidate cleavable linking group canbe evaluated by testing the ability of a degradative agent (orcondition) to cleave the candidate linking group. It will also bedesirable to also test the candidate cleavable linking group for theability to resist cleavage in the blood or when in contact with othernon-target tissue. Thus, one can determine the relative susceptibilityto cleavage between a first and a second condition, where the first isselected to be indicative of cleavage in a target cell and the second isselected to be indicative of cleavage in other tissues or biologicalfluids, e.g., blood or serum. The evaluations can be carried out in cellfree systems, in cells, in cell culture, in organ or tissue culture, orin whole animals. It can be useful to make initial evaluations incell-free or culture conditions and to confirm by further evaluations inwhole animals. In preferred embodiments, useful candidate compounds arecleaved at least about 2, 4, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, orabout 100 times faster in the cell (or under in vitro conditionsselected to mimic intracellular conditions) as compared to blood orserum (or under in vitro conditions selected to mimic extracellularconditions).

i. Redox Cleavable Linking Groups

In one embodiment, a cleavable linking group is a redox cleavablelinking group that is cleaved upon reduction or oxidation. An example ofreductively cleavable linking group is a disulphide linking group(—S—S—). To determine if a candidate cleavable linking group is asuitable “reductively cleavable linking group,” or for example issuitable for use with a particular iRNA moiety and particular targetingagent one can look to methods described herein. For example, a candidatecan be evaluated by incubation with dithiothreitol (DTT), or otherreducing agent using reagents know in the art, which mimic the rate ofcleavage which would be observed in a cell, e.g., a target cell. Thecandidates can also be evaluated under conditions which are selected tomimic blood or serum conditions. In one, candidate compounds are cleavedby at most about 10% in the blood. In other embodiments, usefulcandidate compounds are degraded at least about 2, 4, 10, 20, 30, 40,50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or about 100 times faster in the cell (or under invitro conditions selected to mimic intracellular conditions) as comparedto blood (or under in vitro conditions selected to mimic extracellularconditions). The rate of cleavage of candidate compounds can bedetermined using standard enzyme kinetics assays under conditions chosento mimic intracellular media and compared to conditions chosen to mimicextracellular media.

ii. Phosphate-Based Cleavable Linking Groups

In another embodiment, a cleavable linker comprises a phosphate-basedcleavable linking group. A phosphate-based cleavable linking group iscleaved by agents that degrade or hydrolyze the phosphate group. Anexample of an agent that cleaves phosphate groups in cells are enzymessuch as phosphatases in cells. Examples of phosphate-based linkinggroups are —O—P(O)(ORk)-O—, —O—P(S)(ORk)-O—, —O—P(S)(SRk)-O—,—S—P(O)(ORk)-O—, —O—P(O)(ORk)-S—, —S—P(O)(ORk)-S—, —O—P(S)(ORk)-S—,—S—P(S)(ORk)-O—, —O—P(O)(Rk)-O—, —O—P(S)(Rk)-O—, —S—P(O)(Rk)-O—,—S—P(S)(Rk)-O—, —S—P(O)(Rk)-S—, —O—P(S)(Rk)-S—. Preferred embodimentsare —O—P(O)(OH)—O—, —O—P(S)(OH)—O—, —O—P(S)(SH)—O—, —S—P(O)(OH)—O—,—O—P(O)(OH)—S—, —S—P(O)(OH)—S—, —O—P(S)(OH)—S—, —S—P(S)(OH)—O—,—O—P(O)(H)—O—, —O—P(S)(H)—O—, —S—P(O)(H)—O, —S—P(S)(H)—O—,—S—P(O)(H)—S—, —O—P(S)(H)—S—. A preferred embodiment is —O—P(O)(OH)—O—.These candidates can be evaluated using methods analogous to thosedescribed above.

iii. Acid Cleavable Linking Groups

In another embodiment, a cleavable linker comprises an acid cleavablelinking group. An acid cleavable linking group is a linking group thatis cleaved under acidic conditions. In preferred embodiments acidcleavable linking groups are cleaved in an acidic environment with a pHof about 6.5 or lower (e.g., about 6.0, 5.75, 5.5, 5.25, 5.0, or lower),or by agents such as enzymes that can act as a general acid. In a cell,specific low pH organelles, such as endosomes and lysosomes can providea cleaving environment for acid cleavable linking groups. Examples ofacid cleavable linking groups include but are not limited to hydrazones,esters, and esters of amino acids. Acid cleavable groups can have thegeneral formula —C═NN—, C(O)O, or —OC(O). A preferred embodiment is whenthe carbon attached to the oxygen of the ester (the alkoxy group) is anaryl group, substituted alkyl group, or tertiary alkyl group such asdimethyl pentyl or t-butyl. These candidates can be evaluated usingmethods analogous to those described above.

iv. Ester-Based Linking Groups

In another embodiment, a cleavable linker comprises an ester-basedcleavable linking group. An ester-based cleavable linking group iscleaved by enzymes such as esterases and amidases in cells. Examples ofester-based cleavable linking groups include but are not limited toesters of alkylene, alkenylene and alkynylene groups. Ester cleavablelinking groups have the general formula —C(O)O—, or —OC(O)—. Thesecandidates can be evaluated using methods analogous to those describedabove.

v. Peptide-Based Cleaving Groups

In yet another embodiment, a cleavable linker comprises a peptide-basedcleavable linking group. A peptide-based cleavable linking group iscleaved by enzymes such as peptidases and proteases in cells.Peptide-based cleavable linking groups are peptide bonds formed betweenamino acids to yield oligopeptides (e.g., dipeptides, tripeptides etc.)and polypeptides. Peptide-based cleavable groups do not include theamide group (—C(O)NH—). The amide group can be formed between anyalkylene, alkenylene or alkynelene. A peptide bond is a special type ofamide bond formed between amino acids to yield peptides and proteins.The peptide based cleavage group is generally limited to the peptidebond (i.e., the amide bond) formed between amino acids yielding peptidesand proteins and does not include the entire amide functional group.Peptide-based cleavable linking groups have the general formula—NHCHRAC(O)NHCHRBC(O)—, where RA and RB are the R groups of the twoadjacent amino acids. These candidates can be evaluated using methodsanalogous to those described above.

In one embodiment, an iRNA of the invention is conjugated to acarbohydrate through a linker. Non-limiting examples of iRNAcarbohydrate conjugates with linkers of the comnositions and methods ofthe invention include, but are not limited to,

when one of X or Y is an oligonucleotide, the other is a hydrogen.

In certain embodiments of the compositions and methods of the invention,a ligand is one or more “GalNAc” (N-acetylgalactosamine) derivativesattached through a bivalent or trivalent branched linker.

In one embodiment, a dsRNA of the invention is conjugated to a bivalentor trivalent branched linker selected from the group of structures shownin any of formula (XXXI)-(XXXIV):

wherein:

-   q2A, q2B, q3A, q3B, q4A, q4B, q5A, q5B and q5C represent    independently for each occurrence 0-20 and wherein the repeating    unit can be the same or different;-   P^(2A), P^(2B), P^(3A), P^(3B), P^(4A), P^(4B), P^(5A), P^(5B),    P^(5C), T^(2A), T^(2B), T^(3A), T^(3B), T^(4A), T^(4B), T^(4A),    T^(5B), T^(5C) are each independently for each occurrence absent,    CO, NH, O, S, OC(O), NHC(O), CH₂, CH₂NH or CH₂O;-   Q^(2A), Q^(2B), Q^(3A), Q^(3B), Q^(4A), Q^(4B), Q^(5A), Q^(5B),    Q^(5C) are independently for each occurrence absent, alkylene,    substituted alkylene wherin one or more methylenes can be    interrupted or terminated by one or more of O, S, S(O), SO₂,    N(R^(N)), C(R′)═C(R″), C≡C or C(O);-   R^(2A), R^(2B), R^(3A), R^(3B), R^(4A), R^(4B), R^(5A), R^(5B),    R^(5C) are each independently for each occurrence absent, NH, O, S,    CH₂, C(O)O, C(O)NH, NHCH(R^(a))C(O), —C(O)—CH(R^(a))—NH—, CO,    CH═N—O,

or heterocyclyl;

L^(2A), L^(2B), L^(3A), L^(3B), L^(4A), L^(4B), L^(5A), L^(5B) andL^(5C) represent the ligand; i.e. each independently for each occurrencea monosaccharide (such as GalNAc), disaccharide, trisaccharide,tetrasaccharide, oligosaccharide, or polysaccharide; and R^(a) is H oramino acid side chain.Trivalent conjugating GalNAc derivatives areparticularly useful for use with RNAi agents for inhibiting theexpression of a target gene, such as those of formula (XXXV):

wherein L^(5A), L^(5B) and L^(5C) represent a monosaccharide, such asGalNAc derivative.

Examples of suitable bivalent and trivalent branched linker groupsconjugating GalNAc derivatives include, but are not limited to, thestructures recited above as formulas II, VII, XI, X, and XIII.

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of RNA conjugatesinclude, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,828,979; 4,948,882;5,218,105; 5,525,465; 5,541,313; 5,545,730; 5,552,538; 5,578,717,5,580,731; 5,591,584; 5,109,124; 5,118,802; 5,138,045; 5,414,077;5,486,603; 5,512,439; 5,578,718; 5,608,046; 4,587,044; 4,605,735;4,667,025; 4,762,779; 4,789,737; 4,824,941; 4,835,263; 4,876,335;4,904,582; 4,958,013; 5,082,830; 5,112,963; 5,214,136; 5,082,830;5,112,963; 5,214,136; 5,245,022; 5,254,469; 5,258,506; 5,262,536;5,272,250; 5,292,873; 5,317,098; 5,371,241, 5,391,723; 5,416,203,5,451,463; 5,510,475; 5,512,667; 5,514,785; 5,565,552; 5,567,810;5,574,142; 5,585,481; 5,587,371; 5,595,726; 5,597,696; 5,599,923;5,599,928 and 5,688,941; 6,294,664; 6,320,017; 6,576,752; 6,783,931;6,900,297; 7,037,646; 8,106,022, the entire contents of each of whichare hereby incorporated herein by reference.

It is not necessary for all positions in a given compound to beuniformly modified, and in fact more than one of the aforementionedmodifications can be incorporated in a single compound or even at asingle nucleoside within an iRNA. The present invention also includesiRNA compounds that are chimeric compounds.

“Chimeric” iRNA compounds or “chimeras,” in the context of thisinvention, are iRNA compounds, preferably dsRNAs, which contain two ormore chemically distinct regions, each made up of at least one monomerunit, i.e., a nucleotide in the case of a dsRNA compound. These iRNAstypically contain at least one region wherein the RNA is modified so asto confer upon the iRNA increased resistance to nuclease degradation,increased cellular uptake, and/or increased binding affinity for thetarget nucleic acid. An additional region of the iRNA can serve as asubstrate for enzymes capable of cleaving RNA:DNA or RNA:RNA hybrids. Byway of example, RNase H is a cellular endonuclease which cleaves the RNAstrand of an RNA:DNA duplex. Activation of RNase H, therefore, resultsin cleavage of the RNA target, thereby greatly enhancing the efficiencyof iRNA inhibition of gene expression. Consequently, comparable resultscan often be obtained with shorter iRNAs when chimeric dsRNAs are used,compared to phosphorothioate deoxy dsRNAs hybridizing to the same targetregion. Cleavage of the RNA target can be routinely detected by gelelectrophoresis and, if necessary, associated nucleic acid hybridizationtechniques known in the art.

In certain instances, the RNA of an iRNA can be modified by a non-ligandgroup. A number of non-ligand molecules have been conjugated to iRNAs inorder to enhance the activity, cellular distribution or cellular uptakeof the iRNA, and procedures for performing such conjugations areavailable in the scientific literature. Such non-ligand moieties haveincluded lipid moieties, such as cholesterol (Kubo, T. et al., Biochem.Biophys. Res. Comm., 2007, 365(1):54-61; Letsinger et al., Proc. Natl.Acad. Sci. USA, 1989, 86:6553), cholic acid (Manoharan et al., Bioorg.Med. Chem. Lett., 1994, 4:1053), a thioether, e.g., hexyl-S-tritylthiol(Manoharan et al., Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci., 1992, 660:306; Manoharan etal., Bioorg. Med. Chem. Let., 1993, 3:2765), a thiocholesterol(Oberhauser et al., Nucl. Acids Res., 1992, 20:533), an aliphatic chain,e.g., dodecandiol or undecyl residues (Saison-Behmoaras et al., EMBO J.,1991, 10:111; Kabanov et al., FEBS Lett., 1990, 259:327; Svinarchuk etal., Biochimie, 1993, 75:49), a phospholipid, e.g.,di-hexadecyl-rac-glycerol or triethylammonium1,2-di-O-hexadecyl-rac-glycero-3-H-phosphonate (Manoharan et al.,Tetrahedron Lett., 1995, 36:3651; Shea et al., Nucl. Acids Res., 1990,18:3777), a polyamine or a polyethylene glycol chain (Manoharan et al.,Nucleosides & Nucleotides, 1995, 14:969), or adamantane acetic acid(Manoharan et al., Tetrahedron Lett., 1995, 36:3651), a palmityl moiety(Mishra et al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta, 1995, 1264:229), or anoctadecylamine or hexylamino-carbonyl-oxycholesterol moiety (Crooke etal., J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther., 1996, 277:923). Representative UnitedStates patents that teach the preparation of such RNA conjugates havebeen listed above. Typical conjugation protocols involve the synthesisof an RNAs bearing an aminolinker at one or more positions of thesequence. The amino group is then reacted with the molecule beingconjugated using appropriate coupling or activating reagents. Theconjugation reaction can be performed either with the RNA still bound tothe solid support or following cleavage of the RNA, in solution phase.Purification of the RNA conjugate by HPLC typically affords the pureconjugate.

IV. Delivery of an iRNA of the Invention

The delivery of an iRNA of the invention to a cell e.g., a cell within asubject, such as a human subject (e.g., a subject in need thereof, suchas a subject having a complement component C5-associated disease) can beachieved in a number of different ways. For example, delivery may beperformed by contacting a cell with an iRNA of the invention either invitro or in vivo. In vivo delivery may also be performed directly byadministering a composition comprising an iRNA, e.g., a dsRNA, to asubject. Alternatively, in vivo delivery may be performed indirectly byadministering one or more vectors that encode and direct the expressionof the iRNA. These alternatives are discussed further below.

In general, any method of delivering a nucleic acid molecule (in vitroor in vivo) can be adapted for use with an iRNA of the invention (seee.g., Akhtar S. and Julian R L. (1992) Trends Cell. Biol. 2(5):139-144and WO94/02595, which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentireties). For in vivo delivery, factors to consider in order todeliver an iRNA molecule include, for example, biological stability ofthe delivered molecule, prevention of non-specific effects, andaccumulation of the delivered molecule in the target tissue. Thenon-specific effects of an iRNA can be minimized by localadministration, for example, by direct injection or implantation into atissue or topically administering the preparation. Local administrationto a treatment site maximizes local concentration of the agent, limitsthe exposure of the agent to systemic tissues that can otherwise beharmed by the agent or that can degrade the agent, and permits a lowertotal dose of the iRNA molecule to be administered. Several studies haveshown successful knockdown of gene products when an iRNA is administeredlocally. For example, intraocular delivery of a VEGF dsRNA byintravitreal injection in cynomolgus monkeys (Tolentino, M J., et al(2004) Retina 24:132-138) and subretinal injections in mice (Reich, SJ., et al (2003) Mol. Vis. 9:210-216) were both shown to preventneovascularization in an experimental model of age-related maculardegeneration. In addition, direct intratumoral injection of a dsRNA inmice reduces tumor volume (Pille, J., et al (2005) Mol. Ther.11:267-274) and can prolong survival of tumor-bearing mice (Kim, W J.,et al (2006) Mol. Ther. 14:343-350; Li, S., et al (2007) Mol. Ther.15:515-523). RNA interference has also shown success with local deliveryto the CNS by direct injection (Dorn, G., et al. (2004) Nucleic Acids32:e49; Tan, P H., et al (2005) Gene Ther. 12:59-66; Makimura, H., et al(2002) BMC Neurosci. 3:18; Shishkina, G T., et al (2004) Neuroscience129:521-528; Thakker, E R., et al (2004) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A.101:17270-17275; Akaneya,Y., et al (2005) J. Neurophysiol. 93:594-602)and to the lungs by intranasal administration (Howard, K A., et al(2006) Mol. Ther. 14:476-484; Zhang, X., et al (2004) J. Biol. Chem.279:10677-10684; Bitko, V., et al (2005) Nat. Med. 11:50-55). Foradministering an iRNA systemically for the treatment of a disease, theRNA can be modified or alternatively delivered using a drug deliverysystem; both methods act to prevent the rapid degradation of the dsRNAby endo- and exo-nucleases in vivo. Modification of the RNA or thepharmaceutical carrier can also permit targeting of the iRNA compositionto the target tissue and avoid undesirable off-target effects. iRNAmolecules can be modified by chemical conjugation to lipophilic groupssuch as cholesterol to enhance cellular uptake and prevent degradation.For example, an iRNA directed against ApoB conjugated to a lipophiliccholesterol moiety was injected systemically into mice and resulted inknockdown of apoB mRNA in both the liver and jejunum (Soutschek, J., etal (2004) Nature 432:173-178). Conjugation of an iRNA to an aptamer hasbeen shown to inhibit tumor growth and mediate tumor regression in amouse model of prostate cancer (McNamara, J O., et al (2006) Nat.Biotechnol. 24:1005-1015). In an alternative embodiment, the iRNA can bedelivered using drug delivery systems such as a nanoparticle, adendrimer, a polymer, liposomes, or a cationic delivery system.Positively charged cationic delivery systems facilitate binding of aniRNA molecule (negatively charged) and also enhance interactions at thenegatively charged cell membrane to permit efficient uptake of an iRNAby the cell. Cationic lipids, dendrimers, or polymers can either bebound to an iRNA, or induced to form a vesicle or micelle (see e.g., KimS H., et al (2008) Journal of Controlled Release 129(2):107-116) thatencases an iRNA. The formation of vesicles or micelles further preventsdegradation of the iRNA when administered systemically. Methods formaking and administering cationic-iRNA complexes are well within theabilities of one skilled in the art (see e.g., Sorensen, D R., et al(2003) J. Mol. Biol 327:761-766; Verma, U N., et al (2003) Clin. CancerRes. 9:1291-1300; Arnold, A S et al (2007) J. Hypertens. 25:197-205,which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety). Somenon-limiting examples of drug delivery systems useful for systemicdelivery of iRNAs include DOTAP (Sorensen, D R., et al (2003), supra;Verma, U N., et al (2003), supra), Oligofectamine, “solid nucleic acidlipid particles” (Zimmermann, T S., et al (2006) Nature 441:111-114),cardiolipin (Chien, P Y., et al (2005) Cancer Gene Ther. 12:321-328;Pal, A., et al (2005) Int J Oncol. 26:1087-1091), polyethyleneimine(Bonnet M E., et al (2008) Pharm. Res. August 16 Epub ahead of print;Aigner, A. (2006) J. Biomed. Biotechnol. 71659), Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)peptides (Liu, S. (2006) Mol. Pharm. 3:472-487), and polyamidoamines(Tomalia, D A., et al (2007) Biochem. Soc. Trans. 35:61-67; Yoo, H., etal (1999) Pharm. Res. 16:1799-1804). In some embodiments, an iRNA formsa complex with cyclodextrin for systemic administration. Methods foradministration and pharmaceutical compositions of iRNAs andcyclodextrins can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,427,605, which is hereinincorporated by reference in its entirety.

A. Vector Encoded iRNAs of the Invention

iRNA targeting the C5 gene can be expressed from transcription unitsinserted into DNA or RNA vectors (see, e.g., Couture, A, et al., TIG.(1996), 12:5-10; Skillern, A., et al., International PCT Publication No.WO 00/22113, Conrad, International PCT Publication No. WO 00/22114, andConrad, U.S. Pat. No. 6,054,299). Expression can be transient (on theorder of hours to weeks) or sustained (weeks to months or longer),depending upon the specific construct used and the target tissue or celltype. These transgenes can be introduced as a linear construct, acircular plasmid, or a viral vector, which can be an integrating ornon-integrating vector. The transgene can also be constructed to permitit to be inherited as an extrachromosomal plasmid (Gassmann, et al.,Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA (1995) 92:1292).

The individual strand or strands of an iRNA can be transcribed from apromoter on an expression vector. Where two separate strands are to beexpressed to generate, for example, a dsRNA, two separate expressionvectors can be co-introduced (e.g., by transfection or infection) into atarget cell. Alternatively each individual strand of a dsRNA can betranscribed by promoters both of which are located on the sameexpression plasmid. In one embodiment, a dsRNA is expressed as invertedrepeat polynucleotides joined by a linker polynucleotide sequence suchthat the dsRNA has a stem and loop structure.

iRNA expression vectors are generally DNA plasmids or viral vectors.Expression vectors compatible with eukaryotic cells, preferably thosecompatible with vertebrate cells, can be used to produce recombinantconstructs for the expression of an iRNA as described herein. Eukaryoticcell expression vectors are well known in the art and are available froma number of commercial sources. Typically, such vectors are providedcontaining convenient restriction sites for insertion of the desirednucleic acid segment. Delivery of iRNA expressing vectors can besystemic, such as by intravenous or intramuscular administration, byadministration to target cells ex-planted from the patient followed byreintroduction into the patient, or by any other means that allows forintroduction into a desired target cell.

iRNA expression plasmids can be transfected into target cells as acomplex with cationic lipid carriers (e.g., Oligofectamine) ornon-cationic lipid-based carriers (e.g., Transit-TKO™). Multiple lipidtransfections for iRNA-mediated knockdowns targeting different regionsof a target RNA over a period of a week or more are also contemplated bythe invention. Successful introduction of vectors into host cells can bemonitored using various known methods. For example, transienttransfection can be signaled with a reporter, such as a fluorescentmarker, such as Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP). Stable transfection ofcells ex vivo can be ensured using markers that provide the transfectedcell with resistance to specific environmental factors (e.g.,antibiotics and drugs), such as hygromycin B resistance.

Viral vector systems which can be utilized with the methods andcompositions described herein include, but are not limited to, (a)adenovirus vectors; (b) retrovirus vectors, including but not limited tolentiviral vectors, moloney murine leukemia virus, etc.; (c)adeno-associated virus vectors; (d) herpes simplex virus vectors; (e) SV40 vectors; (f) polyoma virus vectors; (g) papilloma virus vectors; (h)picornavirus vectors; (i) pox virus vectors such as an orthopox, e.g.,vaccinia virus vectors or avipox, e.g. canary pox or fowl pox; and (j) ahelper-dependent or gutless adenovirus. Replication-defective virusescan also be advantageous. Different vectors will or will not becomeincorporated into the cells' genome. The constructs can include viralsequences for transfection, if desired. Alternatively, the construct canbe incorporated into vectors capable of episomal replication, e.g. EPVand EBV vectors. Constructs for the recombinant expression of an iRNAwill generally require regulatory elements, e.g., promoters, enhancers,etc., to ensure the expression of the iRNA in target cells. Otheraspects to consider for vectors and constructs are further describedbelow.

Vectors useful for the delivery of an iRNA will include regulatoryelements (promoter, enhancer, etc.) sufficient for expression of theiRNA in the desired target cell or tissue. The regulatory elements canbe chosen to provide either constitutive or regulated/inducibleexpression.

Expression of the iRNA can be precisely regulated, for example, by usingan inducible regulatory sequence that is sensitive to certainphysiological regulators, e.g., circulating glucose levels, or hormones(Docherty et al., 1994, FASEB J. 8:20-24). Such inducible expressionsystems, suitable for the control of dsRNA expression in cells or inmammals include, for example, regulation by ecdysone, by estrogen,progesterone, tetracycline, chemical inducers of dimerization, andisopropyl-beta-D1 -thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG). A person skilled in theart would be able to choose the appropriate regulatory/promoter sequencebased on the intended use of the iRNA transgene.

Viral vectors that contain nucleic acid sequences encoding an iRNA canbe used. For example, a retroviral vector can be used (see Miller etal., Meth. Enzymol. 217:581-599 (1993)). These retroviral vectorscontain the components necessary for the correct packaging of the viralgenome and integration into the host cell DNA. The nucleic acidsequences encoding an iRNA are cloned into one or more vectors, whichfacilitate delivery of the nucleic acid into a patient. More detailabout retroviral vectors can be found, for example, in Boesen et al.,Biotherapy 6:291-302 (1994), which describes the use of a retroviralvector to deliver the mdrl gene to hematopoietic stem cells in order tomake the stem cells more resistant to chemotherapy. Other referencesillustrating the use of retroviral vectors in gene therapy are: Cloweset al., J. Clin. Invest. 93:644-651 (1994); Kiem et al., Blood83:1467-1473 (1994); Salmons and Gunzberg, Human Gene Therapy 4:129-141(1993); and Grossman and Wilson, Curr. Opin. in Genetics and Devel.3:110-114 (1993). Lentiviral vectors contemplated for use include, forexample, the HIV based vectors described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,143,520;5,665,557; and 5,981,276, which are herein incorporated by reference.

Adenoviruses are also contemplated for use in delivery of iRNAs of theinvention. Adenoviruses are especially attractive vehicles, e.g., fordelivering genes to respiratory epithelia. Adenoviruses naturally infectrespiratory epithelia where they cause a mild disease. Other targets foradenovirus-based delivery systems are liver, the central nervous system,endothelial cells, and muscle. Adenoviruses have the advantage of beingcapable of infecting non-dividing cells. Kozarsky and Wilson, CurrentOpinion in Genetics and Development 3:499-503 (1993) present a review ofadenovirus-based gene therapy. Bout et al., Human Gene Therapy 5:3-10(1994) demonstrated the use of adenovirus vectors to transfer genes tothe respiratory epithelia of rhesus monkeys. Other instances of the useof adenoviruses in gene therapy can be found in Rosenfeld et al.,Science 252:431-434 (1991); Rosenfeld et al., Cell 68:143-155 (1992);Mastrangeli et al., Clin. Invest. 91:225-234 (1993); PCT PublicationWO94/12649; and Wang, et al., Gene Therapy 2:775-783 (1995). A suitableAV vector for expressing an iRNA featured in the invention, a method forconstructing the recombinant AV vector, and a method for delivering thevector into target cells, are described in Xia H et al. (2002), Nat.Biotech. 20: 1006-1010.

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors may also be used to delivery aniRNA of the invention (Walsh et al., Proc. Soc. Exp. Biol. Med.204:289-300 (1993); U.S. Pat. No. 5,436,146). In one embodiment, theiRNA can be expressed as two separate, complementary single-stranded RNAmolecules from a recombinant AAV vector having, for example, either theU6 or H1 RNA promoters, or the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter. SuitableAAV vectors for expressing the dsRNA featured in the invention, methodsfor constructing the recombinant AV vector, and methods for deliveringthe vectors into target cells are described in Samulski R et al. (1987),J. Virol. 61: 3096-3101; Fisher K J et al. (1996), J. Virol, 70:520-532; Samulski R et al. (1989), J. Virol. 63: 3822-3826; U.S. Pat.No. 5,252,479; U.S. Pat. No. 5,139,941; International Patent ApplicationNo. WO 94/13788; and International Patent Application No. WO 93/24641,the entire disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

Another viral vector suitable for delivery of an iRNA of the inevtion isa pox virus such as a vaccinia virus, for example an attenuated vacciniasuch as Modified Virus Ankara (MVA) or NYVAC, an avipox such as fowl poxor canary pox.

The tropism of viral vectors can be modified by pseudotyping the vectorswith envelope proteins or other surface antigens from other viruses, orby substituting different viral capsid proteins, as appropriate. Forexample, lentiviral vectors can be pseudotyped with surface proteinsfrom vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), rabies, Ebola, Mokola, and thelike. AAV vectors can be made to target different cells by engineeringthe vectors to express different capsid protein serotypes; see, e.g.,Rabinowitz J E et al. (2002), J Virol 76:791-801, the entire disclosureof which is herein incorporated by reference.

The pharmaceutical preparation of a vector can include the vector in anacceptable diluent, or can include a slow release matrix in which thegene delivery vehicle is imbedded. Alternatively, where the completegene delivery vector can be produced intact from recombinant cells,e.g., retroviral vectors, the pharmaceutical preparation can include oneor more cells which produce the gene delivery system.

V. Pharmaceutical Compositions of the Invention

The present invention also includes pharmaceutical compositions andformulations which include the iRNAs of the invention. In oneembodiment, provided herein are pharmaceutical compositions containingan iRNA, as described herein, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

The phrase “pharmaceutically acceptable” is employed herein to refer tothose compounds, materials, compositions, and/or dosage forms which are,within the scope of sound medical judgment, suitable for use in contactwith the tissues of human subjects and animal subjects without excessivetoxicity, irritation, allergic response, or other problem orcomplication, commensurate with a reasonable benefit/risk ratio.

The phrase “pharmaceutically-acceptable carrier” as used herein means apharmaceutically-acceptable material, composition or vehicle, such as aliquid or solid filler, diluent, excipient, manufacturing aid (e.g.,lubricant, talc magnesium, calcium or zinc stearate, or steric acid), orsolvent encapsulating material, involved in carrying or transporting thesubject compound from one organ, or portion of the body, to anotherorgan, or portion of the body. Each carrier must be “acceptable” in thesense of being compatible with the other ingredients of the formulationand not injurious to the subject being treated. Some examples ofmaterials which can serve as pharmaceutically-acceptable carriersinclude: (1) sugars, such as lactose, glucose and sucrose; (2) starches,such as corn starch and potato starch; (3) cellulose, and itsderivatives, such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose andcellulose acetate; (4) powdered tragacanth; (5) malt; (6) gelatin; (7)lubricating agents, such as magnesium state, sodium lauryl sulfate andtalc; (8) excipients, such as cocoa butter and suppository waxes; (9)oils, such as peanut oil, cottonseed oil, safflower oil, sesame oil,olive oil, corn oil and soybean oil; (10) glycols, such as propyleneglycol; (11) polyols, such as glycerin, sorbitol, mannitol andpolyethylene glycol; (12) esters, such as ethyl oleate and ethyllaurate; (13) agar; (14) buffering agents, such as magnesium hydroxideand aluminum hydroxide; (15) alginic acid; (16) pyrogen-free water; (17)isotonic saline; (18) Ringer's solution; (19) ethyl alcohol; (20) pHbuffered solutions; (21) polyesters, polycarbonates and/orpolyanhydrides; (22) bulking agents, such as polypeptides and aminoacids (23) serum component, such as serum albumin, HDL and LDL; and (22)other non-toxic compatible substances employed in pharmaceuticalformulations.

The pharmaceutical compositions containing the iRNA are useful fortreating a disease or disorder associated with the expression oractivity of a C5 gene, e.g. a complement component C5-associateddisease. Such pharmaceutical compositions are formulated based on themode of delivery. One example is compositions that are formulated forsystemic administration via parenteral delivery, e.g., by subcutaneous(SC) or intravenous (IV) delivery. Another example is compositions thatare formulated for direct delivery into the brain parenchyma, e.g., byinfusion into the brain, such as by continuous pump infusion. Thepharmaceutical compositions of the invention may be administered indosages sufficient to inhibit expression of a C5 gene. In general, asuitable dose of an iRNA of the invention will be in the range of about0.001 to about 200.0 milligrams per kilogram body weight of therecipient per day, generally in the range of about 1 to 50 mg perkilogram body weight per day. For example, the dsRNA can be administeredat about 0.01 mg/kg, about 0.05 mg/kg, about 0.5 mg/kg, about 1 mg/kg,about 1.5 mg/kg, about 2 mg/kg, about 3 mg/kg, about 10 mg/kg, about 20mg/kg, about 30 mg/kg, about 40 mg/kg, or about 50 mg/kg per singledose.

For example, the dsRNA may be administered at a dose of about 0.1, 0.2,0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7,1.8, 1.9, 2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, 3.1, 3.2,3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7,4.8, 4.9, 5, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 6, 6.1, 6.2,6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.7, 6.8, 6.9, 7, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7,7.8, 7.9, 8, 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.6, 8.7, 8.8, 8.9, 9, 9.1, 9.2,9.3, 9.4, 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, or about 10 mg/kg. Values and rangesintermediate to the recited values are also intended to be part of thisinvention.

In another embodiment, the dsRNA is administered at a dose of about 0.1to about 50 mg/kg, about 0.25 to about 50 mg/kg, about 0.5 to about 50mg/kg, about 0.75 to about 50 mg/kg, about 1 to about 50 mg/mg, about1.5 to about 50 mg/kb, about 2 to about 50 mg/kg, about 2.5 to about 50mg/kg, about 3 to about 50 mg/kg, about 3.5 to about 50 mg/kg, about 4to about 50 mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 50 mg/kg, about 5 to about 50mg/kg, about 7.5 to about 50 mg/kg, about 10 to about 50 mg/kg, about 15to about 50 mg/kg, about 20 to about 50 mg/kg, about 20 to about 50mg/kg, about 25 to about 50 mg/kg, about 25 to about 50 mg/kg, about 30to about 50 mg/kg, about 35 to about 50 mg/kg, about 40 to about 50mg/kg, about 45 to about 50 mg/kg, about 0.1 to about 45 mg/kg, about0.25 to about 45 mg/kg, about 0.5 to about 45 mg/kg, about 0.75 to about45 mg/kg, about 1 to about 45 mg/mg, about 1.5 to about 45 mg/kb, about2 to about 45 mg/kg, about 2.5 to about 45 mg/kg, about 3 to about 45mg/kg, about 3.5 to about 45 mg/kg, about 4 to about 45 mg/kg, about 4.5to about 45 mg/kg, about 5 to about 45 mg/kg, about 7.5 to about 45mg/kg, about 10 to about 45 mg/kg, about 15 to about 45 mg/kg, about 20to about 45 mg/kg, about 20 to about 45 mg/kg, about 25 to about 45mg/kg, about 25 to about 45 mg/kg, about 30 to about 45 mg/kg, about 35to about 45 mg/kg, about 40 to about 45 mg/kg, about 0.1 to about 40mg/kg, about 0.25 to about 40 mg/kg, about 0.5 to about 40 mg/kg, about0.75 to about 40 mg/kg, about 1 to about 40 mg/mg, about 1.5 to about 40mg/kb, about 2 to about 40 mg/kg, about 2.5 to about 40 mg/kg, about 3to about 40 mg/kg, about 3.5 to about 40 mg/kg, about 4 to about 40mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 40 mg/kg, about 5 to about 40 mg/kg, about 7.5to about 40 mg/kg, about 10 to about 40 mg/kg, about 15 to about 40mg/kg, about 20 to about 40 mg/kg, about 20 to about 40 mg/kg, about 25to about 40 mg/kg, about 25 to about 40 mg/kg, about 30 to about 40mg/kg, about 35 to about 40 mg/kg, about 0.1 to about 30 mg/kg, about0.25 to about 30 mg/kg, about 0.5 to about 30 mg/kg, about 0.75 to about30 mg/kg, about 1 to about 30 mg/mg, about 1.5 to about 30 mg/kb, about2 to about 30 mg/kg, about 2.5 to about 30 mg/kg, about 3 to about 30mg/kg, about 3.5 to about 30 mg/kg, about 4 to about 30 mg/kg, about 4.5to about 30 mg/kg, about 5 to about 30 mg/kg, about 7.5 to about 30mg/kg, about 10 to about 30 mg/kg, about 15 to about 30 mg/kg, about 20to about 30 mg/kg, about 20 to about 30 mg/kg, about 25 to about 30mg/kg, about 0.1 to about 20 mg/kg, about 0.25 to about 20 mg/kg, about0.5 to about 20 mg/kg, about 0.75 to about 20 mg/kg, about 1 to about 20mg/mg, about 1.5 to about 20 mg/kb, about 2 to about 20 mg/kg, about 2.5to about 20 mg/kg, about 3 to about 20 mg/kg, about 3.5 to about 20mg/kg, about 4 to about 20 mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 20 mg/kg, about 5to about 20 mg/kg, about 7.5 to about 20 mg/kg, about 10 to about 20mg/kg, or about 15 to about 20 mg/kg. Values and ranges intermediate tothe recited values are also intended to be part of this invention.

For example, the dsRNA may be administered at a dose of about 0..01,0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5,0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2,2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5,3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, 5,5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 6, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5,6.6, 6.7, 6.8, 6.9, 7, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7, 7.8, 7.9, 8,8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.6, 8.7, 8.8, 8.9, 9, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5,9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, or about 10 mg/kg. Values and ranges intermediate tothe recited values are also intended to be part of this invention.

In another embodiment, the dsRNA is administered at a dose of about 0.5to about 50 mg/kg, about 0.75 to about 50 mg/kg, about 1 to about 50mg/mg, about 1.5 to about 50 mg/kb, about 2 to about 50 mg/kg, about 2.5to about 50 mg/kg, about 3 to about 50 mg/kg, about 3.5 to about 50mg/kg, about 4 to about 50 mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 50 mg/kg, about 5to about 50 mg/kg, about 7.5 to about 50 mg/kg, about 10 to about 50mg/kg, about 15 to about 50 mg/kg, about 20 to about 50 mg/kg, about 20to about 50 mg/kg, about 25 to about 50 mg/kg, about 25 to about 50mg/kg, about 30 to about 50 mg/kg, about 35 to about 50 mg/kg, about 40to about 50 mg/kg, about 45 to about 50 mg/kg, about 0.5 to about 45mg/kg, about 0.75 to about 45 mg/kg, about 1 to about 45 mg/mg, about1.5 to about 45 mg/kb, about 2 to about 45 mg/kg, about 2.5 to about 45mg/kg, about 3 to about 45 mg/kg, about 3.5 to about 45 mg/kg, about 4to about 45 mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 45 mg/kg, about 5 to about 45mg/kg, about 7.5 to about 45 mg/kg, about 10 to about 45 mg/kg, about 15to about 45 mg/kg, about 20 to about 45 mg/kg, about 20 to about 45mg/kg, about 25 to about 45 mg/kg, about 25 to about 45 mg/kg, about 30to about 45 mg/kg, about 35 to about 45 mg/kg, about 40 to about 45mg/kg, about 0.5 to about 40 mg/kg, about 0.75 to about 40 mg/kg, about1 to about 40 mg/mg, about 1.5 to about 40 mg/kb, about 2 to about 40mg/kg, about 2.5 to about 40 mg/kg, about 3 to about 40 mg/kg, about 3.5to about 40 mg/kg, about 4 to about 40 mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 40mg/kg, about 5 to about 40 mg/kg, about 7.5 to about 40 mg/kg, about 10to about 40 mg/kg, about 15 to about 40 mg/kg, about 20 to about 40mg/kg, about 20 to about 40 mg/kg, about 25 to about 40 mg/kg, about 25to about 40 mg/kg, about 30 to about 40 mg/kg, about 35 to about 40mg/kg, about 0.5 to about 30 mg/kg, about 0.75 to about 30 mg/kg, about1 to about 30 mg/mg, about 1.5 to about 30 mg/kb, about 2 to about 30mg/kg, about 2.5 to about 30 mg/kg, about 3 to about 30 mg/kg, about 3.5to about 30 mg/kg, about 4 to about 30 mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 30mg/kg, about 5 to about 30 mg/kg, about 7.5 to about 30 mg/kg, about 10to about 30 mg/kg, about 15 to about 30 mg/kg, about 20 to about 30mg/kg, about 20 to about 30 mg/kg, about 25 to about 30 mg/kg, about 0.5to about 20 mg/kg, about 0.75 to about 20 mg/kg, about 1 to about 20mg/mg, about 1.5 to about 20 mg/kb, about 2 to about 20 mg/kg, about 2.5to about 20 mg/kg, about 3 to about 20 mg/kg, about 3.5 to about 20mg/kg, about 4 to about 20 mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 20 mg/kg, about 5to about 20 mg/kg, about 7.5 to about 20 mg/kg, about 10 to about 20mg/kg, or about 15 to about 20 mg/kg. In one embodiment, the dsRNA isadministered at a dose of about 10mg/kg to about 30 mg/kg. Values andranges intermediate to the recited values are also intended to be partof this invention.

For example, subjects can be administered, e.g., subcutaneously orintravenously, a single therapeutic amount of iRNA, such as about 0.1,0.125, 0.15, 0.175, 0.2, 0.225, 0.25, 0.275, 0.3, 0.325, 0.35, 0.375,0.4, 0.425, 0.45, 0.475, 0.5, 0.525, 0.55, 0.575, 0.6, 0.625, 0.65,0.675, 0.7, 0.725, 0.75, 0.775, 0.8, 0.825, 0.85, 0.875, 0.9, 0.925,0.95, 0.975, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2, 2.1,2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6,3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, 5, 5.1,5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 6, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6,6.7, 6.8, 6.9, 7, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7, 7.8, 7.9, 8, 8.1,8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.6, 8.7, 8.8, 8.9, 9, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5, 9.6,9.7, 9.8, 9.9, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 12.5, 13, 13.5, 14, 14.5, 15,15.5, 16, 16.5, 17, 17.5, 18, 18.5, 19, 19.5, 20, 20.5, 21, 21.5, 22,22.5, 23, 23.5, 24, 24.5, 25, 25.5, 26, 26.5, 27, 27.5, 28, 28.5, 29,29.5, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44,45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or about 50 mg/kg. Values and ranges intermediate tothe recited values are also intended to be part of this invention.

In some embodiments, subjects are administered, e.g., subcutaneously orintravenously, multiple doses of a therapeutic amount of iRNA, such as adose about 0.1, 0.125, 0.15, 0.175, 0.2, 0.225, 0.25, 0.275, 0.3, 0.325,0.35, 0.375, 0.4, 0.425, 0.45, 0.475, 0.5, 0.525, 0.55, 0.575, 0.6,0.625, 0.65, 0.675, 0.7, 0.725, 0.75, 0.775, 0.8, 0.825, 0.85, 0.875,0.9, 0.925, 0.95, 0.975, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9,2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4,3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9,5, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 6, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4,6.5, 6.6, 6.7, 6.8, 6.9, 7, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7, 7.8, 7.9,8, 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.6, 8.7, 8.8, 8.9, 9, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4,9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 12.5, 13, 13.5, 14,14.5, 15, 15.5, 16, 16.5, 17, 17.5, 18, 18.5, 19, 19.5, 20, 20.5, 21,21.5, 22, 22.5, 23, 23.5, 24, 24.5, 25, 25.5, 26, 26.5, 27, 27.5, 28,28.5, 29, 29.5, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42,43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or about 50 mg/kg. A multi-dose regimine mayinclude administration of a therapeutic amount of iRNA daily, such asfor two days, three days, four days, five days, six days, seven days, orlonger.

In other embodiments, subjects are administered, e.g., subcutaneously orintravenously, a repeat dose of a therapeutic amount of iRNA, such as adose about 0.1, 0.125, 0.15, 0.175, 0.2, 0.225, 0.25, 0.275, 0.3, 0.325,0.35, 0.375, 0.4, 0.425, 0.45, 0.475, 0.5, 0.525, 0.55, 0.575, 0.6,0.625, 0.65, 0.675, 0.7, 0.725, 0.75, 0.775, 0.8, 0.825, 0.85, 0.875,0.9, 0.925, 0.95, 0.975, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9,2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4,3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9,5, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 6, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4,6.5, 6.6, 6.7, 6.8, 6.9, 7, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7, 7.8, 7.9,8, 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.6, 8.7, 8.8, 8.9, 9, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4,9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 12.5, 13, 13.5, 14,14.5, 15, 15.5, 16, 16.5, 17, 17.5, 18, 18.5, 19, 19.5, 20, 20.5, 21,21.5, 22, 22.5, 23, 23.5, 24, 24.5, 25, 25.5, 26, 26.5, 27, 27.5, 28,28.5, 29, 29.5, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42,43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or about 50 mg/kg. A repeat-dose regiminemay include administration of a therapeutic amount of iRNA on a regularbasis, such as every other day, every third day, every fourth day, twicea week, once a week, every other week, or once a month.

The pharmaceutical composition can be administered by intravenousinfusion over a period of time, such as over a 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11,12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and 21, 22, 23, 24, or about a 25minute period. The administration may be repeated, for example, on aregular basis, such as weekly, biweekly (i.e., every two weeks) for onemonth, two months, three months, four months or longer. After an initialtreatment regimen, the treatments can be administered on a less frequentbasis. For example, after administration weekly or biweekly for threemonths, administration can be repeated once per month, for six months ora year or longer.

The pharmaceutical composition can be administered once daily, or theiRNA can be administered as two, three, or more sub-doses at appropriateintervals throughout the day or even using continuous infusion ordelivery through a controlled release formulation. In that case, theiRNA contained in each sub-dose must be correspondingly smaller in orderto achieve the total daily dosage. The dosage unit can also becompounded for delivery over several days, e.g., using a conventionalsustained release formulation which provides sustained release of theiRNA over a several day period. Sustained release formulations are wellknown in the art and are particularly useful for delivery of agents at aparticular site, such as could be used with the agents of the presentinvention. In this embodiment, the dosage unit contains a correspondingmultiple of the daily dose.

In other embodiments, a single dose of the pharmaceutical compositionscan be long lasting, such that subsequent doses are administered at notmore than 3, 4, or 5 day intervals, or at not more than 1, 2, 3, or 4week intervals. In some embodiments of the invention, a single dose ofthe pharmaceutical compositions of the invention is administered onceper week. In other embodiments of the invention, a single dose of thepharmaceutical compositions of the invention is administered bi-monthly.

The skilled artisan will appreciate that certain factors can influencethe dosage and timing required to effectively treat a subject, includingbut not limited to the severity of the disease or disorder, previoustreatments, the general health and/or age of the subject, and otherdiseases present. Moreover, treatment of a subject with atherapeutically effective amount of a composition can include a singletreatment or a series of treatments. Estimates of effective dosages andin vivo half-lives for the individual iRNAs encompassed by the inventioncan be made using conventional methodologies or on the basis of in vivotesting using an appropriate animal model, as described elsewhereherein.

Advances in mouse genetics have generated a number of mouse models forthe study of various human diseases, such as a disorder that wouldbenefit from reduction in the expression of C5. Such models can be usedfor in vivo testing of iRNA, as well as for determining atherapeutically effective dose. Suitable mouse models are known in theart and include, for example, collagen-induced arthritis mouse model(Courtenay, J. S., et al. (1980) Nature 283, 666-668), myocardialischemia (Homeister J W and Lucchesi B R (1994) Annu Rev PharmacolToxicol 34:17-40), ovalbumin induced asthma mouse models (e.g.,Tomkinson A., et al. (2001). J. Immunol. 166, 5792-5800), (NZB×NZW)F1,MRL/Fas^(lpr) (MRL/lpr) and BXSB mouse models (Theofilopoulos, A. N. andKono, D. H. 1999. Murine lupus models: gene-specific and genome-widestudies. In Lahita R. G., ed., Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, 3rd edn, p.145. Academic Press, San Diego, Calif.), mouse aHUS model (Goicoechea deJorge et al. (2011) The development of atypical hemolytic uremicsyndrome depeds on complement C5, J Am Soc Nephrol 22:137-145.

The pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention can beadministered in a number of ways depending upon whether local orsystemic treatment is desired and upon the area to be treated.Administration can be topical (e.g., by a transdermal patch), pulmonary,e.g., by inhalation or insufflation of powders or aerosols, including bynebulizer; intratracheal, intranasal, epidermal and transdermal, oral orparenteral. Parenteral administration includes intravenous,intraarterial, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal or intramuscular injectionor infusion; subdermal, e.g., via an implanted device; or intracranial,e.g., by intraparenchymal, intrathecal or intraventricular,administration.

The iRNA can be delivered in a manner to target a particular tissue,such as the liver (e.g., the hepatocytes of the liver).

Pharmaceutical compositions and formulations for topical administrationcan include transdermal patches, ointments, lotions, creams, gels,drops, suppositories, sprays, liquids and powders. Conventionalpharmaceutical carriers, aqueous, powder or oily bases, thickeners andthe like can be necessary or desirable. Coated condoms, gloves and thelike can also be useful. Suitable topical formulations include those inwhich the iRNAs featured in the invention are in admixture with atopical delivery agent such as lipids, liposomes, fatty acids, fattyacid esters, steroids, chelating agents and surfactants. Suitable lipidsand liposomes include neutral (e.g., dioleoylphosphatidyl DOPEethanolamine, dimyristoylphosphatidyl choline DMPC,distearolyphosphatidyl choline) negative (e.g., dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol DMPG) and cationic (e.g., dioleoyltetramethylaminopropyl DOTAPand dioleoylphosphatidyl ethanolamine DOTMA). iRNAs featured in theinvention can be encapsulated within liposomes or can form complexesthereto, in particular to cationic liposomes. Alternatively, iRNAs canbe complexed to lipids, in particular to cationic lipids. Suitable fattyacids and esters include but are not limited to arachidonic acid, oleicacid, eicosanoic acid, lauric acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, myristicacid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid,dicaprate, tricaprate, monoolein, dilaurin, glyceryl 1-monocaprate,1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one, an acylcarnitine, an acylcholine, or aC₁₋₂₀ alkyl ester (e.g., isopropylmyristate IPM), monoglyceride,diglyceride or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof). Topicalformulations are described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,747,014, whichis incorporated herein by reference.

A. iRNA Formulations Comprising Membranous Molecular Assemblies

An iRNA for use in the compositions and methods of the invention can beformulated for delivery in a membranous molecular assembly, e.g., aliposome or a micelle. As used herein, the term “liposome” refers to avesicle composed of amphiphilic lipids arranged in at least one bilayer,e.g., one bilayer or a plurality of bilayers. Liposomes includeunilamellar and multilamellar vesicles that have a membrane formed froma lipophilic material and an aqueous interior. The aqueous portioncontains the iRNA composition. The lipophilic material isolates theaqueous interior from an aqueous exterior, which typically does notinclude the iRNA composition, although in some examples, it may.Liposomes are useful for the transfer and delivery of active ingredientsto the site of action. Because the liposomal membrane is structurallysimilar to biological membranes, when liposomes are applied to a tissue,the liposomal bilayer fuses with bilayer of the cellular membranes. Asthe merging of the liposome and cell progresses, the internal aqueouscontents that include the iRNA are delivered into the cell where theiRNA can specifically bind to a target RNA and can mediate RNAi. In somecases the liposomes are also specifically targeted, e.g., to direct theiRNA to particular cell types.

A liposome containing a RNAi agent can be prepared by a variety ofmethods. In one example, the lipid component of a liposome is dissolvedin a detergent so that micelles are formed with the lipid component. Forexample, the lipid component can be an amphipathic cationic lipid orlipid conjugate. The detergent can have a high critical micelleconcentration and may be nonionic. Exemplary detergents include cholate,CHAPS, octylglucoside, deoxycholate, and lauroyl sarcosine. The RNAiagent preparation is then added to the micelles that include the lipidcomponent. The cationic groups on the lipid interact with the RNAi agentand condense around the RNAi agent to form a liposome. Aftercondensation, the detergent is removed, e.g., by dialysis, to yield aliposomal preparation of RNAi agent.

If necessary a carrier compound that assists in condensation can beadded during the condensation reaction, e.g., by controlled addition.For example, the carrier compound can be a polymer other than a nucleicacid (e.g., spermine or spermidine). pH can also adjusted to favorcondensation.

Methods for producing stable polynucleotide delivery vehicles, whichincorporate a polynucleotide/cationic lipid complex as structuralcomponents of the delivery vehicle, are further described in, e.g., WO96/37194, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein byreference. Liposome formation can also include one or more aspects ofexemplary methods described in Felgner, P. L. et al., Proc. Natl. Acad.Sci., USA 8:7413-7417, 1987; U.S. Pat. No. 4,897,355; U.S. Pat. No.5,171,678; Bangham, et al. M. Mol. Biol. 23:238, 1965; Olson, et al.Biochim. Biophys. Acta 557:9, 1979; Szoka, et al. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.75: 4194, 1978; Mayhew, et al. Biochim. Biophys. Acta 775:169, 1984;Kim, et al. Biochim. Biophys. Acta 728:339, 1983; and Fukunaga, et al.Endocrinol. 115:757, 1984. Commonly used techniques for preparing lipidaggregates of appropriate size for use as delivery vehicles includesonication and freeze-thaw plus extrusion (see, e.g., Mayer, et al.Biochim. Biophys. Acta 858:161, 1986). Microfluidization can be usedwhen consistently small (50 to 200 nm) and relatively uniform aggregatesare desired (Mayhew, et al. Biochim. Biophys. Acta 775:169, 1984). Thesemethods are readily adapted to packaging RNAi agent preparations intoliposomes.

Liposomes fall into two broad classes. Cationic liposomes are positivelycharged liposomes which interact with the negatively charged nucleicacid molecules to form a stable complex. The positively charged nucleicacid/liposome complex binds to the negatively charged cell surface andis internalized in an endosome. Due to the acidic pH within theendosome, the liposomes are ruptured, releasing their contents into thecell cytoplasm (Wang et al., Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun., 1987, 147,980-985).

Liposomes which are pH-sensitive or negatively-charged, entrap nucleicacids rather than complex with it. Since both the nucleic acid and thelipid are similarly charged, repulsion rather than complex formationoccurs. Nevertheless, some nucleic acid is entrapped within the aqueousinterior of these liposomes. pH-sensitive liposomes have been used todeliver nucleic acids encoding the thymidine kinase gene to cellmonolayers in culture. Expression of the exogenous gene was detected inthe target cells (Zhou et al., Journal of Controlled Release, 1992, 19,269-274).

One major type of liposomal composition includes phospholipids otherthan naturally-derived phosphatidylcholine. Neutral liposomecompositions, for example, can be formed from dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) or dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC).Anionic liposome compositions generally are formed from dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol, while anionic fusogenic liposomes are formedprimarily from dioleoyl phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE). Another type ofliposomal composition is formed from phosphatidylcholine (PC) such as,for example, soybean PC, and egg PC. Another type is formed frommixtures of phospholipid and/or phosphatidylcholine and/or cholesterol.

Examples of other methods to introduce liposomes into cells in vitro andin vivo include U.S. Pat. No. 5,283,185; U.S. Pat. No. 5,171,678; WO94/00569; WO 93/24640; WO 91/16024; Felgner, J. Biol. Chem. 269:2550,1994; Nabel, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. 90:11307, 1993; Nabel, Human GeneTher. 3:649, 1992; Gershon, Biochem. 32:7143, 1993; and Strauss EMBO J.11:417, 1992.

Non-ionic liposomal systems have also been examined to determine theirutility in the delivery of drugs to the skin, in particular systemscomprising non-ionic surfactant and cholesterol. Non-ionic liposomalformulations comprising Novasome™ I (glyceryldilaurate/cholesterol/polyoxyethylene-10-stearyl ether) and Novasome™ II(glyceryl distearate/cholesterol/polyoxyethylene-10-stearyl ether) wereused to deliver cyclosporin-A into the dermis of mouse skin. Resultsindicated that such non-ionic liposomal systems were effective infacilitating the deposition of cyclosporine A into different layers ofthe skin (Hu et al. S.T.P.Pharma. Sci., 1994, 4(6) 466).

Liposomes also include “sterically stabilized” liposomes, a term which,as used herein, refers to liposomes comprising one or more specializedlipids that, when incorporated into liposomes, result in enhancedcirculation lifetimes relative to liposomes lacking such specializedlipids. Examples of sterically stabilized liposomes are those in whichpart of the vesicle-forming lipid portion of the liposome (A) comprisesone or more glycolipids, such as monosialoganglioside Gmi, or (B) isderivatized with one or more hydrophilic polymers, such as apolyethylene glycol (PEG) moiety. While not wishing to be bound by anyparticular theory, it is thought in the art that, at least forsterically stabilized liposomes containing gangliosides, sphingomyelin,or PEG-derivatized lipids, the enhanced circulation half-life of thesesterically stabilized liposomes derives from a reduced uptake into cellsof the reticuloendothelial system (RES) (Allen et al., FEBS Letters,1987, 223, 42; Wu et al., Cancer Research, 1993, 53, 3765).

Various liposomes comprising one or more glycolipids are known in theart. Papahadjopoulos et al. (Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci., 1987, 507, 64)reported the ability of monosialoganglioside G_(M1), galactocerebrosidesulfate and phosphatidylinositol to improve blood half-lives ofliposomes. These findings were expounded upon by Gabizon et al. (Proc.Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A., 1988, 85, 6949). U.S. Pat. No. 4,837,028 and WO88/04924, both to Allen et al., disclose liposomes comprising (1)sphingomyelin and (2) the ganglioside G_(M1) or a galactocerebrosidesulfate ester. U.S. Pat. No. 5,543,152 (Webb et al.) discloses liposomescomprising sphingomyelin. Liposomes comprising1,2-sn-dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine are disclosed in WO 97/13499 (Limet al).

In one embodiment, cationic liposomes are used. Cationic liposomespossess the advantage of being able to fuse to the cell membrane.Non-cationic liposomes, although not able to fuse as efficiently withthe plasma membrane, are taken up by macrophages in vivo and can be usedto deliver RNAi agents to macrophages.

Further advantages of liposomes include: liposomes obtained from naturalphospholipids are biocompatible and biodegradable; liposomes canincorporate a wide range of water and lipid soluble drugs; liposomes canprotect encapsulated RNAi agents in their internal compartments frommetabolism and degradation (Rosoff, in “Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms,”Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, volume 1, p. 245). Importantconsiderations in the preparation of liposome formulations are the lipidsurface charge, vesicle size and the aqueous volume of the liposomes.

A positively charged synthetic cationic lipid,N-[1-(2,3-dioleyloxy)propyl]-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (DOTMA)can be used to form small liposomes that interact spontaneously withnucleic acid to form lipid-nucleic acid complexes which are capable offusing with the negatively charged lipids of the cell membranes oftissue culture cells, resulting in delivery of RNAi agent (see, e.g.,Felgner, P. L. et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., USA 8:7413-7417, 1987 andU.S. Pat. No. 4,897,355 for a description of DOTMA and its use withDNA).

A DOTMA analogue, 1,2-bis(oleoyloxy)-3-(trimethylammonia)propane (DOTAP)can be used in combination with a phospholipid to form DNA-complexingvesicles. Lipofectin™ Bethesda Research Laboratories, Gaithersburg, Md.)is an effective agent for the delivery of highly anionic nucleic acidsinto living tissue culture cells that comprise positively charged DOTMAliposomes which interact spontaneously with negatively chargedpolynucleotides to form complexes. When enough positively chargedliposomes are used, the net charge on the resulting complexes is alsopositive. Positively charged complexes prepared in this wayspontaneously attach to negatively charged cell surfaces, fuse with theplasma membrane, and efficiently deliver functional nucleic acids into,for example, tissue culture cells. Another commercially availablecationic lipid, 1,2-bis(oleoyloxy)-3,3-(trimethylammonia)propane(“DOTAP”) (Boehringer Mannheim, Indianapolis, Ind.) differs from DOTMAin that the oleoyl moieties are linked by ester, rather than etherlinkages.

Other reported cationic lipid compounds include those that have beenconjugated to a variety of moieties including, for example,carboxyspermine which has been conjugated to one of two types of lipidsand includes compounds such as 5-carboxyspermylglycine dioctaoleoylamide(“DOGS”) (Transfectam™, Promega, Madison, Wis.) anddipalmitoylphosphatidylethanolamine 5-carboxyspermyl-amide (“DPPES”)(see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,171,678).

Another cationic lipid conjugate includes derivatization of the lipidwith cholesterol (“DC-Chol”) which has been formulated into liposomes incombination with DOPE (See, Gao, X. and Huang, L., Biochim. Biophys.Res. Commun. 179:280, 1991). Lipopolylysine, made by conjugatingpolylysine to DOPE, has been reported to be effective for transfectionin the presence of serum (Zhou, X. et al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta1065:8, 1991). For certain cell lines, these liposomes containingconjugated cationic lipids, are said to exhibit lower toxicity andprovide more efficient transfection than the DOTMA-containingcompositions. Other commercially available cationic lipid productsinclude DMRIE and DMRIE-HP (Vical, La Jolla, Calif.) and Lipofectamine(DOSPA) (Life Technology, Inc., Gaithersburg, Md.). Other cationiclipids suitable for the delivery of oligonucleotides are described in WO98/39359 and WO 96/37194.

Liposomal formulations are particularly suited for topicaladministration, liposomes present several advantages over otherformulations. Such advantages include reduced side effects related tohigh systemic absorption of the administered drug, increasedaccumulation of the administered drug at the desired target, and theability to administer RNAi agent into the skin. In some implementations,liposomes are used for delivering RNAi agent to epidermal cells and alsoto enhance the penetration of RNAi agent into dermal tissues, e.g., intoskin. For example, the liposomes can be applied topically. Topicaldelivery of drugs formulated as liposomes to the skin has beendocumented (see, e.g., Weiner et al., Journal of Drug Targeting, 1992,vol. 2,405-410 and du Plessis et al., Antiviral Research, 18, 1992,259-265; Mannino, R. J. and Fould-Fogerite, S., Biotechniques 6:682-690,1988; Itani, T. et al. Gene 56:267-276. 1987; Nicolau, C. et al. Meth.Enz. 149:157-176, 1987; Straubinger, R. M. and Papahadjopoulos, D. Meth.Enz. 101:512-527, 1983; Wang, C. Y. and Huang, L., Proc. Natl. Acad.Sci. USA 84:7851-7855, 1987).

Non-ionic liposomal systems have also been examined to determine theirutility in the delivery of drugs to the skin, in particular systemscomprising non-ionic surfactant and cholesterol. Non-ionic liposomalformulations comprising Novasome I (glyceryldilaurate/cholesterol/polyoxyethylene-10-stearyl ether) and Novasome II(glyceryl distearate/cholesterol/polyoxyethylene-10-stearyl ether) wereused to deliver a drug into the dermis of mouse skin. Such formulationswith RNAi agent are useful for treating a dermatological disorder.

Liposomes that include iRNA can be made highly deformable. Suchdeformability can enable the liposomes to penetrate through pore thatare smaller than the average radius of the liposome. For example,transfersomes are a type of deformable liposomes. Transferosomes can bemade by adding surface edge activators, usually surfactants, to astandard liposomal composition. Transfersomes that include RNAi agentcan be delivered, for example, subcutaneously by infection in order todeliver RNAi agent to keratinocytes in the skin. In order to crossintact mammalian skin, lipid vesicles must pass through a series of finepores, each with a diameter less than 50 nm, under the influence of asuitable transdermal gradient. In addition, due to the lipid properties,these transferosomes can be self-optimizing (adaptive to the shape ofpores, e.g., in the skin), self-repairing, and can frequently reachtheir targets without fragmenting, and often self-loading.

Other formulations amenable to the present invention are described inUnited States provisional application serial Nos. 61/018,616, filed Jan.2, 2008; 61/018,611, filed Jan. 2, 2008; 61/039,748, filed Mar. 26,2008; 61/047,087, filed Apr. 22, 2008 and 61/051,528, filed May 8, 2008.PCT application no PCT/US2007/080331, filed Oct. 3, 2007 also describesformulations that are amenable to the present invention.

Transfersomes are yet another type of liposomes, and are highlydeformable lipid aggregates which are attractive candidates for drugdelivery vehicles. Transfersomes can be described as lipid dropletswhich are so highly deformable that they are easily able to penetratethrough pores which are smaller than the droplet. Transfersomes areadaptable to the environment in which they are used, e.g., they areself-optimizing (adaptive to the shape of pores in the skin),self-repairing, frequently reach their targets without fragmenting, andoften self-loading. To make transfersomes it is possible to add surfaceedge-activators, usually surfactants, to a standard liposomalcomposition. Transfersomes have been used to deliver serum albumin tothe skin. The transfersome-mediated delivery of serum albumin has beenshown to be as effective as subcutaneous injection of a solutioncontaining serum albumin.

Surfactants find wide application in formulations such as emulsions(including microemulsions) and liposomes. The most common way ofclassifying and ranking the properties of the many different types ofsurfactants, both natural and synthetic, is by the use of thehydrophile/lipophile balance (HLB). The nature of the hydrophilic group(also known as the “head”) provides the most useful means forcategorizing the different surfactants used in formulations (Rieger, in“Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms”, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y.,1988, p. 285).

If the surfactant molecule is not ionized, it is classified as anonionic surfactant. Nonionic surfactants find wide application inpharmaceutical and cosmetic products and are usable over a wide range ofpH values. In general their HLB values range from 2 to about 18depending on their structure. Nonionic surfactants include nonionicesters such as ethylene glycol esters, propylene glycol esters, glycerylesters, polyglyceryl esters, sorbitan esters, sucrose esters, andethoxylated esters. Nonionic alkanolamides and ethers such as fattyalcohol ethoxylates, propoxylated alcohols, and ethoxylated/propoxylatedblock polymers are also included in this class. The polyoxyethylenesurfactants are the most popular members of the nonionic surfactantclass.

If the surfactant molecule carries a negative charge when it isdissolved or dispersed in water, the surfactant is classified asanionic. Anionic surfactants include carboxylates such as soaps, acyllactylates, acyl amides of amino acids, esters of sulfuric acid such asalkyl sulfates and ethoxylated alkyl sulfates, sulfonates such as alkylbenzene sulfonates, acyl isethionates, acyl taurates andsulfosuccinates, and phosphates. The most important members of theanionic surfactant class are the alkyl sulfates and the soaps.

If the surfactant molecule carries a positive charge when it isdissolved or dispersed in water, the surfactant is classified ascationic. Cationic surfactants include quaternary ammonium salts andethoxylated amines. The quaternary ammonium salts are the most usedmembers of this class.

If the surfactant molecule has the ability to carry either a positive ornegative charge, the surfactant is classified as amphoteric. Amphotericsurfactants include acrylic acid derivatives, substituted alkylamides,N-alkylbetaines and phosphatides.

The use of surfactants in drug products, formulations and in emulsionshas been reviewed (Rieger, in “Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms”, MarcelDekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., 1988, p. 285).

The iRNA for use in the methods of the invention can also be provided asmicellar formulations. “Micelles” are defined herein as a particulartype of molecular assembly in which amphipathic molecules are arrangedin a spherical structure such that all the hydrophobic portions of themolecules are directed inward, leaving the hydrophilic portions incontact with the surrounding aqueous phase. The converse arrangementexists if the environment is hydrophobic.

A mixed micellar formulation suitable for delivery through transdermalmembranes may be prepared by mixing an aqueous solution of the siRNAcomposition, an alkali metal C8 to C22 alkyl sulphate, and a micelleforming compounds. Exemplary micelle forming compounds include lecithin,hyaluronic acid, pharmaceutically acceptable salts of hyaluronic acid,glycolic acid, lactic acid, chamomile extract, cucumber extract, oleicacid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, monoolein, monooleates,monolaurates, borage oil, evening of primrose oil, menthol, trihydroxyoxo cholanyl glycine and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof,glycerin, polyglycerin, lysine, polylysine, triolein, polyoxyethyleneethers and analogues thereof, polidocanol alkyl ethers and analoguesthereof, chenodeoxycholate, deoxycholate, and mixtures thereof. Themicelle forming compounds may be added at the same time or afteraddition of the alkali metal alkyl sulphate. Mixed micelles will formwith substantially any kind of mixing of the ingredients but vigorousmixing in order to provide smaller size micelles.

In one method a first micellar composition is prepared which containsthe siRNA composition and at least the alkali metal alkyl sulphate. Thefirst micellar composition is then mixed with at least three micelleforming compounds to form a mixed micellar composition. In anothermethod, the micellar composition is prepared by mixing the siRNAcomposition, the alkali metal alkyl sulphate and at least one of themicelle forming compounds, followed by addition of the remaining micelleforming compounds, with vigorous mixing.

Phenol and/or m-cresol may be added to the mixed micellar composition tostabilize the formulation and protect against bacterial growth.Alternatively, phenol and/or m-cresol may be added with the micelleforming ingredients. An isotonic agent such as glycerin may also beadded after formation of the mixed micellar composition.

For delivery of the micellar formulation as a spray, the formulation canbe put into an aerosol dispenser and the dispenser is charged with apropellant. The propellant, which is under pressure, is in liquid formin the dispenser. The ratios of the ingredients are adjusted so that theaqueous and propellant phases become one, i.e., there is one phase. Ifthere are two phases, it is necessary to shake the dispenser prior todispensing a portion of the contents, e.g., through a metered valve. Thedispensed dose of pharmaceutical agent is propelled from the meteredvalve in a fine spray.

Propellants may include hydrogen-containing chlorofluorocarbons,hydrogen-containing fluorocarbons, dimethyl ether and diethyl ether. Incertain embodiments, HFA 134a (1,1,1,2 tetrafluoroethane) may be used.

The specific concentrations of the essential ingredients can bedetermined by relatively straightforward experimentation. For absorptionthrough the oral cavities, it is often desirable to increase, e.g., atleast double or triple, the dosage for through injection oradministration through the gastrointestinal tract.

B. Lipid Particles

iRNAs, e.g., dsRNAs of in the invention may be fully encapsulated in alipid formulation, e.g., a LNP, or other nucleic acid-lipid particle.

As used herein, the term “LNP” refers to a stable nucleic acid-lipidparticle. LNPs typically contain a cationic lipid, a non-cationic lipid,and a lipid that prevents aggregation of the particle (e.g., a PEG-lipidconjugate). LNPs are extremely useful for systemic applications, as theyexhibit extended circulation lifetimes following intravenous (i.v.)injection and accumulate at distal sites (e.g., sites physicallyseparated from the administration site). LNPs include “pSPLP,” whichinclude an encapsulated condensing agent-nucleic acid complex as setforth in PCT Publication No. WO 00/03683. The particles of the presentinvention typically have a mean diameter of about 50 nm to about 150 nm,more typically about 60 nm to about 130 nm, more typically about 70 nmto about 110 nm, most typically about 70 nm to about 90 nm, and aresubstantially nontoxic. In addition, the nucleic acids when present inthe nucleic acid- lipid particles of the present invention are resistantin aqueous solution to degradation with a nuclease. Nucleic acid-lipidparticles and their method of preparation are disclosed in, e.g., U .S.Pat. Nos. 5,976,567; 5,981,501; 6,534,484; 6,586,410; 6,815,432; U.S.Publication No. 2010/0324120 and PCT Publication No. WO 96/40964.

In one embodiment, the lipid to drug ratio (mass/mass ratio) (e.g.,lipid to dsRNA ratio) will be in the range of from about 1:1 to about50:1, from about 1:1 to about 25:1, from about 3:1 to about 15:1, fromabout 4:1 to about 10:1, from about 5:1 to about 9:1, or about 6:1 toabout 9:1. Ranges intermediate to the above recited ranges are alsocontemplated to be part of the invention.

The cationic lipid can be, for example, N,N-dioleyl-N,N-dimethylammoniumchloride (DODAC), N,N-distearyl-N,N-dimethylammonium bromide (DDAB),N-(I -(2,3-dioleoyloxy)propyl)-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (DOTAP),N-(I -(2,3-dioleyloxy)propyl)-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (DOTMA),N,N-dimethyl-2,3-dioleyloxy)propylamine (DODMA),1,2-DiLinoleyloxy-N,N-dimethylaminopropane(DLinDMA),1,2-Dilinolenyloxy-N,N-dimethylaminopropane (DLenDMA),1,2-Dilinoleylcarbamoyloxy-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLin-C-DAP),1,2-Dilinoleyoxy-3-(dimethylamino)acetoxypropane (DLin-DAC),1,2-Dilinoleyoxy-3-morpholinopropane (DLin-MA),1,2-Dilinoleoyl-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDAP),1,2-Dilinoleylthio-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLin-S-DMA),1-Linoleoyl-2-linoleyloxy-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLin-2-DMAP),1,2-Dilinoleyloxy-3-trimethylaminopropane chloride salt (DLin-TMA.C1),1,2-Dilinoleoyl-3-trimethylaminopropane chloride salt (DLin-TAP.C1),1,2-Dilinoleyloxy-3-(N-methylpiperazino)propane (DLin-MPZ), or3-(N,N-Dilinoleylamino)-1,2-propanediol (DLinAP),3-(N,N-Dioleylamino)-1,2-propanedio (DOAP),1,2-Dilinoleyloxo-3-(2-N,N-dimethylamino)ethoxypropane (DLin-EG-DMA),1,2-Dilinolenyloxy-N,N-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDMA),2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminomethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane (DLin-K-DMA) oranalogs thereof,(3aR,5s,6aS)-N,N-dimethyl-2,2-di((9Z,12Z)-octadeca-9,12-dienyl)tetrahydro-3aH-cyclopenta[d][1,3]dioxol-5-amine(ALN100), (6Z,9Z,28Z,31Z)-heptatriaconta-6,9,28,31-tetraen-19-yl4-(dimethylamino)butanoate (MC3),1,1′-(2-(4-(2-((2-(bis(2-hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)(2-hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)piperazin-1-yl)ethylazanediyl)didodecan-2-ol(Tech G1), or a mixture thereof. The cationic lipid can comprise fromabout 20 mol % to about 50 mol % or about 40 mol % of the total lipidpresent in the particle.

In another embodiment, the compound2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane can be used toprepare lipid-siRNA nanoparticles. Synthesis of2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane is described inUnited States provisional patent application number 61/107,998 filed onOct. 23, 2008, which is herein incorporated by reference.

In one embodiment, the lipid-siRNA particle includes 40%2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane: 10% DSPC: 40%Cholesterol: 10% PEG-C-DOMG (mole percent) with a particle size of63.0±20 nm and a 0.027 siRNA/Lipid Ratio.

The ionizable/non-cationic lipid can be an anionic lipid or a neutrallipid including, but not limited to, di stearoylphosphatidylcholine(DSPC), dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC),dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC), dioleoylphosphatidylglycerol(DOPG), dipalmitoylphosphatidylglycerol (DPPG),dioleoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE),palmitoyloleoylphosphatidylcholine (POPC),palmitoyloleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (POPE),dioleoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine4-(N-maleimidomethyl)-cyclohexane-1-carboxylate (DOPE-mal), dipalmitoylphosphatidyl ethanolamine (DPPE), dimyristoylphosphoethanolamine (DMPE),distearoyl-phosphatidyl-ethanolamine (DSPE), 16-O-monomethyl PE,16-O-dimethyl PE, 18-1-trans PE, 1-stearoyl-2-oleoyl-phosphatidyethanolamine (SOPE), cholesterol, or a mixture thereof. Thenon-cationic lipid can be from about 5 mol % to about 90 mol %, about 10mol %, or about 58 mol % if cholesterol is included, of the total lipidpresent in the particle.

The conjugated lipid that inhibits aggregation of particles can be, forexample, a polyethyleneglycol (PEG)-lipid including, without limitation,a PEG-diacylglycerol (DAG), a PEG-dialkyloxypropyl (DAA), aPEG-phospholipid, a PEG-ceramide (Cer), or a mixture thereof. ThePEG-DAA conjugate can be, for example, a PEG-dilauryloxypropyl (Ci₂), aPEG-dimyristyloxypropyl (Ci₄), a PEG-dipalmityloxypropyl (Ci₆), or aPEG-distearyloxypropyl (Ci₈). The conjugated lipid that preventsaggregation of particles can be from 0 mol % to about 20 mol % or about2 mol % of the total lipid present in the particle.

In some embodiments, the nucleic acid-lipid particle further includescholesterol at, e.g., about 10 mol % to about 60 mol % or about 48 mol %of the total lipid present in the particle.

In one embodiment, the lipidoid ND98.4HCl (MW 1487) (see U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/056,230, filed Mar. 26, 2008, which isincorporated herein by reference), Cholesterol (Sigma-Aldrich), andPEG-Ceramide C16 (Avanti Polar Lipids) can be used to preparelipid-dsRNA nanoparticles (i.e., LNP01 particles). Stock solutions ofeach in ethanol can be prepared as follows: ND98, 133 mg/ml;Cholesterol, 25 mg/ml, PEG-Ceramide C16, 100 mg/ml. The ND98,Cholesterol, and PEG-Ceramide C16 stock solutions can then be combinedin a, e.g., 42:48:10 molar ratio. The combined lipid solution can bemixed with aqueous dsRNA (e.g., in sodium acetate pH 5) such that thefinal ethanol concentration is about 35-45% and the final sodium acetateconcentration is about 100-300 mM. Lipid-dsRNA nanoparticles typicallyform spontaneously upon mixing. Depending on the desired particle sizedistribution, the resultant nanoparticle mixture can be extruded througha polycarbonate membrane (e.g., 100 nm cut-off) using, for example, athermobarrel extruder, such as Lipex Extruder (Northern Lipids, Inc). Insome cases, the extrusion step can be omitted. Ethanol removal andsimultaneous buffer exchange can be accomplished by, for example,dialysis or tangential flow filtration. Buffer can be exchanged with,for example, phosphate buffered saline (PBS) at about pH 7, e.g., aboutpH 6.9, about pH 7.0, about pH 7.1, about pH 7.2, about pH 7.3, or aboutpH 7.4.

LNP01 formulations are described, e.g., in International ApplicationPublication No. WO 2008/042973, which is hereby incorporated byreference.

Additional exemplary lipid-dsRNA formulations are described in Table 1.

TABLE 1 cationic lipid/non-cationic lipid/cholesterol/PEG-lipidconjugate Ionizable/Cationic Lipid Lipid:siRNA ratio SNALP-11,2-Dilinolenyloxy-N,N-dimethylaminopropaneDLinDMA/DPPC/Cholesterol/PEG-cDMA (DLinDMA) (57.1/7.1/34.4/1.4)lipid:siRNA ~7:1 2-XTC 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-XTC/DPPC/Cholesterol/PEG-cDMA dioxolane (XTC) 57.1/7.1/34.4/1.4lipid:siRNA ~7:1 LNP05 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG dioxolane (XTC) 57.5/7.5/31.5/3.5lipid:siRNA ~6:1 LNP06 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG dioxolane (XTC) 57.5/7.5/31.5/3.5lipid:siRNA ~11:1 LNP07 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG dioxolane (XTC) 60/7.5/31/1.5, lipid:siRNA~6:1 LNP08 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG dioxolane (XTC) 60/7.5/31/1.5, lipid:siRNA~11:1 LNP09 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG dioxolane (XTC) 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA10:1 LNP10 (3aR,5s,6aS)-N,N-dimethyl-2,2-di((9Z,12Z)-ALN100/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG octadeca-9,12-dienyl)tetrahydro-3aH-50/10/38.5/1.5 cyclopenta[d][1,3]dioxol-5-amine (ALN100) Lipid:siRNA10:1 LNP11 (6Z,9Z,28Z,31Z)-heptatriaconta-6,9,28,31-MC-3/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG tetraen-19-yl 4-(dimethylamino)butanoate50/10/38.5/1.5 (MC3) Lipid:siRNA 10:1 LNP12 1,1′-(2-(4-(2-((2-(bis(2-Tech G1/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)(2-50/10/38.5/1.5 hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)piperazin-1- Lipid:siRNA 10:1yl)ethylazanediyl)didodecan-2-ol (Tech G1) LNP13 XTCXTC/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DMG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 33:1 LNP14 MC3MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DMG 40/15/40/5 Lipid:siRNA: 11:1 LNP15 MC3MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DSG/GalNAc-PEG-DSG 50/10/35/4.5/0.5 Lipid:siRNA: 11:1LNP16 MC3 MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DMG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 7:1 LNP17MC3 MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DSG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 10:1 LNP18 MC3MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DMG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 12:1 LNP19 MC3MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DMG 50/10/35/5 Lipid:siRNA: 8:1 LNP20 MC3MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DPG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 10:1 LNP21 C12-200C12-200/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DSG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 7:1 LNP22 XTCXTC/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DSG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 10:1

-   DSPC: distearoylphosphatidylcholine-   DPPC: dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine-   PEG-DMG: PEG-didimyristoyl glycerol (C14-PEG, or PEG-C14) (PEG with    avg mol wt of 2000)-   PEG-DSG: PEG-distyryl glycerol (C18-PEG, or PEG-C18) (PEG with avg    mol wt of 2000)-   PEG-cDMA: PEG-carbamoyl-1,2-dimyristyloxypropylamine (PEG with avg    mol wt of 2000)-   SNALP (1,2-Dilinolenyloxy-N,N-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDMA))    comprising formulations are described in International Publication    No. WO2009/127060, filed Apr. 15, 2009, which is hereby incorporated    by reference.

XTC comprising formulations are described, e.g., in U.S. ProvisionalSer. No. 61/148,366, filed Jan. 29, 2009; U.S. Provisional Ser. No.61/156,851, filed Mar. 2, 2009; U.S. Provisional Ser. No. filed Jun. 10,2009; U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 61/228,373, filed Jul. 24, 2009; U.S.Provisional Ser. No. 61/239,686, filed Sep. 3, 2009, and InternationalApplication No. PCT/US2010/022614, filed Jan. 29, 2010, which are herebyincorporated by reference.

MC3 comprising formulations are described, e.g., in U.S. Publication No.2010/0324120, filed Jun. 10, 2010, the entire contents of which arehereby incorporated by reference.

ALNY-100 comprising formulations are described, e.g., Internationalpatent application number PCT/US09/63933, filed on Nov. 10, 2009, whichis hereby incorporated by reference.

C12-200 comprising formulations are described in U.S. Provisional Ser.No. 61/175,770, filed May 5, 2009 and International Application No.PCT/US10/33777, filed May 5, 2010, which are hereby incorporated byreference.

Synthesis of Ionizable/Cationic Lipids

Any of the compounds, e.g., cationic lipids and the like, used in thenucleic acid-lipid particles of the invention can be prepared by knownorganic synthesis techniques, including the methods described in moredetail in the Examples. All substituents are as defined below unlessindicated otherwise.

“Alkyl” means a straight chain or branched, noncyclic or cyclic,saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon containing from 1 to 24 carbon atoms.Representative saturated straight chain alkyls include methyl, ethyl,n-propyl, n-butyl, n-pentyl, n-hexyl, and the like; while saturatedbranched alkyls include isopropyl, sec-butyl, isobutyl, tert-butyl,isopentyl, and the like. Representative saturated cyclic alkyls includecyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, and the like; whileunsaturated cyclic alkyls include cyclopentenyl and cyclohexenyl, andthe like.

“Alkenyl” means an alkyl, as defined above, containing at least onedouble bond between adjacent carbon atoms. Alkenyls include both cis andtrans isomers. Representative straight chain and branched alkenylsinclude ethylenyl, propylenyl, 1-butenyl, 2-butenyl, isobutylenyl,1-pentenyl, 2-pentenyl, 3-methyl-l-butenyl, 2-methyl-2-butenyl,2,3-dimethyl-2-butenyl, and the like.

“Alkynyl” means any alkyl or alkenyl, as defined above, whichadditionally contains at least one triple bond between adjacent carbons.Representative straight chain and branched alkynyls include acetylenyl,propynyl, 1-butynyl, 2-butynyl, 1-pentynyl, 2-pentynyl, 3-methyl-1butynyl, and the like.

“Acyl” means any alkyl, alkenyl, or alkynyl wherein the carbon at thepoint of attachment is substituted with an oxo group, as defined below.For example, —C(═O)alkyl, —C(═O)alkenyl, and —C(═O)alkynyl are acylgroups.

“Heterocycle” means a 5- to 7-membered monocyclic, or 7- to 10-memberedbicyclic, heterocyclic ring which is either saturated, unsaturated, oraromatic, and which contains from 1 or 2 heteroatoms independentlyselected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and wherein the nitrogen andsulfur heteroatoms can be optionally oxidized, and the nitrogenheteroatom can be optionally quaternized, including bicyclic rings inwhich any of the above heterocycles are fused to a benzene ring. Theheterocycle can be attached via any heteroatom or carbon atom.Heterocycles include heteroaryls as defined below. Heterocycles includemorpholinyl, pyrrolidinonyl, pyrrolidinyl, piperidinyl, piperizynyl,hydantoinyl, valerolactamyl, oxiranyl, oxetanyl, tetrahydrofuranyl,tetrahydropyranyl, tetrahydropyridinyl, tetrahydroprimidinyl,tetrahydrothiophenyl, tetrahydrothiopyranyl, tetrahydropyrimidinyl,tetrahydrothiophenyl, tetrahydrothiopyranyl, and the like.

The terms “optionally substituted alkyl”, “optionally substitutedalkenyl”, “optionally substituted alkynyl”, “optionally substitutedacyl”, and “optionally substituted heterocycle” means that, whensubstituted, at least one hydrogen atom is replaced with a substituent.In the case of an oxo substituent (═O) two hydrogen atoms are replaced.In this regard, substituents include oxo, halogen, heterocycle, —CN,—ORx, —NRxRy, —NRxC(═O)Ry, —NRxSO₂Ry, —C(═O)Rx, —C(═O)ORx, —C(═O)NRxRy,—SOnRx and —SOnNRxRy, wherein n is 0, 1 or 2, Rx and Ry are the same ordifferent and independently hydrogen, alkyl or heterocycle, and each ofsaid alkyl and heterocycle substituents can be further substituted withone or more of oxo, halogen, —OH, —CN, alkyl, —ORx, heterocycle, —NRxRy,—NRxC(═O)Ry, —NRxSO₂Ry, —C(═O)Rx, —C(═O)ORx, —C(═O)NRxRy, —SOnRx and—SOnNRxRy.

“Halogen” means fluoro, chloro, bromo and iodo.

In some embodiments, the methods of the invention can require the use ofprotecting groups. Protecting group methodology is well known to thoseskilled in the art (see, for example, Protective Groups in OrganicSynthesis, Green, T. W. et al., Wiley-Interscience, New York City,1999). Briefly, protecting groups within the context of this inventionare any group that reduces or eliminates unwanted reactivity of afunctional group. A protecting group can be added to a functional groupto mask its reactivity during certain reactions and then removed toreveal the original functional group. In some embodiments an “alcoholprotecting group” is used. An “alcohol protecting group” is any groupwhich decreases or eliminates unwanted reactivity of an alcoholfunctional group. Protecting groups can be added and removed usingtechniques well known in the art.

Synthesis of Formula A

In some embodiments, nucleic acid-lipid particles of the invention areformulated using a cationic lipid of formula A:

where R1 and R2 are independently alkyl, alkenyl or alkynyl, each can beoptionally substituted, and R3 and R4 are independently lower alkyl orR3 and R4 can be taken together to form an optionally substitutedheterocyclic ring. In some embodiments, the cationic lipid is XTC(2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane). In general, thelipid of formula A above can be made by the following Reaction Schemes 1or 2, wherein all substituents are as defined above unless indicatedotherwise.

Lipid A, where R1 and R2 are independently alkyl, alkenyl or alkynyl,each can be optionally substituted, and R3 and R4 are independentlylower alkyl or R3 and R4 can be taken together to form an optionallysubstituted heterocyclic ring, can be prepared according to Scheme 1.Ketone 1 and bromide 2 can be purchased or prepared according to methodsknown to those of ordinary skill in the art. Reaction of 1 and 2 yieldsketal 3. Treatment of ketal 3 with amine 4 yields lipids of formula A.The lipids of formula A can be converted to the corresponding ammoniumsalt with an organic salt of formula 5, where X is anion counter ionselected from halogen, hydroxide, phosphate, sulfate, or the like.

Alternatively, the ketone 1 starting material can be prepared accordingto Scheme 2. Grignard reagent 6 and cyanide 7 can be purchased orprepared according to methods known to those of ordinary skill in theart. Reaction of 6 and 7 yields ketone 1. Conversion of ketone 1 to thecorresponding lipids of formula A is as described in Scheme 1.

Synthesis of MC3

Preparation of DLin-M-C3 -DMA (i.e.,(6Z,9Z,28Z,31Z)-heptatriaconta-6,9,28,31-tetraen-19-yl4-(dimethylamino)butanoate) was as follows. A solution of(6Z,9Z,28Z,31Z)-heptatriaconta-6,9,28,31-tetraen-19-ol (0.53 g),4-N,N-dimethylaminobutyric acid hydrochloride (0.51 g),4-N,N-dimethylaminopyridine (0.61g) and1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride (0.53 g) indichloromethane (5 mL) was stirred at room temperature overnight. Thesolution was washed with dilute hydrochloric acid followed by diluteaqueous sodium bicarbonate. The organic fractions were dried overanhydrous magnesium sulphate, filtered and the solvent removed on arotovap. The residue was passed down a silica gel column (20 g) using a1-5% methanol/dichloromethane elution gradient. Fractions containing thepurified product were combined and the solvent removed, yielding acolorless oil (0.54 g). Synthesis of ALNY-100

Synthesis of ketal 519 [ALNY-100] was performed using the followingscheme 3:

Synthesis of 515

To a stirred suspension of LiAlH4 (3.74 g, 0.09852 mol) in 200 mlanhydrous THF in a two neck RBF (1 L), was added a solution of 514 (10g, 0.04926 mol) in 70 mL of THF slowly at 0 0 C under nitrogenatmosphere. After complete addition, reaction mixture was warmed to roomtemperature and then heated to reflux for 4 h. Progress of the reactionwas monitored by TLC. After completion of reaction (by TLC) the mixturewas cooled to 0 0 C and quenched with careful addition of saturatedNa2SO4 solution. Reaction mixture was stirred for 4 h at roomtemperature and filtered off. Residue was washed well with THF. Thefiltrate and washings were mixed and diluted with 400 mL dioxane and 26mL conc. HCl and stirred for 20 minutes at room temperature. Thevolatilities were stripped off under vacuum to furnish the hydrochloridesalt of 515 as a white solid. Yield: 7.12 g 1H-NMR (DMSO, 400 MHz):δ=9.34 (broad, 2H), 5.68 (s, 2H), 3.74 (m, 1H), 2.66-2.60 (m, 2H),2.50-2.45 (m, 5H).

Synthesis of 516

To a stirred solution of compound 515 in 100 mL dry DCM in a 250 mL twoneck RBF, was added NEt3 (37.2 mL, 0.2669 mol) and cooled to 0 0 C undernitrogen atmosphere. After a slow addition ofN-(benzyloxy-carbonyloxy)-succinimide (20 g, 0.08007 mol) in 50 mL dryDCM, reaction mixture was allowed to warm to room temperature. Aftercompletion of the reaction (2-3 h by TLC) mixture was washedsuccessively with 1N HCl solution (1×100 mL) and saturated NaHCO3solution (1×50 mL). The organic layer was then dried over anhyd. Na2SO4and the solvent was evaporated to give crude material which was purifiedby silica gel column chromatography to get 516 as sticky mass. Yield: 11g (89%). 1H-NMR (CDCl3, 400 MHz): δ=7.36-7.27(m, 5H), 5.69 (s, 2H), 5.12(s, 2H), 4.96 (br., 1H) 2.74 (s, 3H), 2.60(m, 2H), 2.30-2.25 (m, 2H).LC-MS [M+H]−232.3 (96.94%).

Synthesis of 517A and 517B

The cyclopentene 516 (5 g, 0.02164 mol) was dissolved in a solution of220 mL acetone and water (10:1) in a single neck 500 mL RBF and to itwas added N-methyl morpholine-N-oxide (7.6 g, 0.06492 mol) followed by4.2 mL of 7.6% solution of OsO4 (0.275 g, 0.00108 mol) in tert-butanolat room temperature. After completion of the reaction (˜3 h), themixture was quenched with addition of solid Na2SO3 and resulting mixturewas stirred for 1.5 h at room temperature. Reaction mixture was dilutedwith DCM (300 mL) and washed with water (2×100 mL) followed by saturatedNaHCO3 (1×50 mL) solution, water (1×30 mL) and finally with brine (1×50mL). Organic phase was dried over an.Na2SO4 and solvent was removed invacuum. Silica gel column chromatographic purification of the crudematerial was afforded a mixture of diastereomers, which were separatedby prep HPLC. Yield: −6 g crude

517A-Peak-1 (white solid), 5.13 g (96%). 1H-NMR (DMSO, 400 MHz):δ=7.39-7.31(m, 5H), 5.04 (s, 2H), 4.78-4.73 (m, 1H), 4.48-4.47 (d, 2H),3.94-3.93 (m, 2H), 2.71 (s, 3H), 1.72- 1.67(m, 4H). LC-MS-[M+H]−266.3,[M+NH4+]−283.5 present, HPLC-97.86%. Stereochemistry confirmed by X-ray.

Synthesis of 518

Using a procedure analogous to that described for the synthesis ofcompound 505, compound 518 (1.2 g, 41%) was obtained as a colorless oil.1H-NMR (CDCl3, 400 MHz): δ=7.35-7.33 (m, 4H), 7.30-7.27 (m, 1H),5.37-5.27 (m, 8H), 5.12 (s, 2H), 4.75 (m,1H), 4.58-4.57 (m,2H),2.78-2.74 (m,7H), 2.06-2.00 (m,8H), 1.96-1.91 (m, 2H), 1.62 (m, 4H),1.48(m, 2H), 1.37-1.25 (br m, 36H), 0.87 (m, 6H). HPLC-98.65%.

General Procedure for the Synthesis of Compound 519

A solution of compound 518 (1 eq) in hexane (15 mL) was added in adrop-wise fashion to an ice-cold solution of LAH in THF (1 M, 2 eq).After complete addition, the mixture was heated at 40° C. over 0.5 hthen cooled again on an ice bath. The mixture was carefully hydrolyzedwith saturated aqueous Na2SO4 then filtered through celite and reducedto an oil. Column chromatography provided the pure 519 (1.3 g, 68%)which was obtained as a colorless oil. 13C NMR δ=130.2, 130.1 (x2),127.9 (x3), 112.3, 79.3, 64.4, 44.7, 38.3, 35.4, 31.5, 29.9 (x2), 29.7,29.6 (x2), 29.5 (x3), 29.3 (x2), 27.2 (x3), 25.6, 24.5, 23.3, 226, 14.1;Electrospray MS (+ve): Molecular weight for C44H80NO2 (M+H)+ Calc.654.6, Found 654.6.

Formulations prepared by either the standard or extrusion-free methodcan be characterized in similar manners. For example, formulations aretypically characterized by visual inspection. They should be whitishtranslucent solutions free from aggregates or sediment. Particle sizeand particle size distribution of lipid-nanoparticles can be measured bylight scattering using, for example, a Malvern Zetasizer Nano ZS(Malvern, USA). Particles should be about 20-300 nm, such as 40-100 nmin size. The particle size distribution should be unimodal. The totaldsRNA concentration in the formulation, as well as the entrappedfraction, is estimated using a dye exclusion assay. A sample of theformulated dsRNA can be incubated with an RNA-binding dye, such asRibogreen (Molecular Probes) in the presence or absence of a formulationdisrupting surfactant, e.g., 0.5% Triton-X100. The total dsRNA in theformulation can be determined by the signal from the sample containingthe surfactant, relative to a standard curve. The entrapped fraction isdetermined by subtracting the “free” dsRNA content (as measured by thesignal in the absence of surfactant) from the total dsRNA content.Percent entrapped dsRNA is typically >85%. For SNALP formulation, theparticle size is at least 30 nm, at least 40 nm, at least 50 nm, atleast 60 nm, at least 70 nm, at least 80 nm, at least 90 nm, at least100 nm, at least 110 nm, and at least 120 nm. The suitable range istypically about at least 50 nm to about at least 110 nm, about at least60 nm to about at least 100 nm, or about at least 80 nm to about atleast 90 nm.

Compositions and formulations for oral administration include powders orgranules, microparticulates, nanoparticulates, suspensions or solutionsin water or non-aqueous media, capsules, gel capsules, sachets, tabletsor minitablets. Thickeners, flavoring agents, diluents, emulsifiers,dispersing aids or binders can be desirable. In some embodiments, oralformulations are those in which dsRNAs featured in the invention areadministered in conjunction with one or more penetration enhancersurfactants and chelators. Suitable surfactants include fatty acidsand/or esters or salts thereof, bile acids and/or salts thereof.Suitable bile acids/salts include chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) andursodeoxychenodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), cholic acid, dehydrocholic acid,deoxycholic acid, glucholic acid, glycholic acid, glycodeoxycholic acid,taurocholic acid, taurodeoxycholic acid, sodiumtauro-24,25-dihydro-fusidate and sodium glycodihydrofusidate. Suitablefatty acids include arachidonic acid, undecanoic acid, oleic acid,lauric acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid,stearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, dicaprate, tricaprate,monoolein, dilaurin, glyceryl 1-monocaprate,1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one, an acylcarnitine, an acylcholine, or amonoglyceride, a diglyceride or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof (e.g., sodium). In some embodiments, combinations of penetrationenhancers are used, for example, fatty acids/salts in combination withbile acids/salts. One exemplary combination is the sodium salt of lauricacid, capric acid and UDCA. Further penetration enhancers includepolyoxyethylene-9-lauryl ether, polyoxyethylene-20-cetyl ether. DsRNAsfeatured in the invention can be delivered orally, in granular formincluding sprayed dried particles, or complexed to form micro ornanoparticles. DsRNA complexing agents include poly-amino acids;polyimines; polyacrylates; polyalkylacrylates, polyoxethanes,polyalkylcyanoacrylates; cationized gelatins, albumins, starches,acrylates, polyethyleneglycols (PEG) and starches;polyalkylcyanoacrylates; DEAE-derivatized polyimines, pollulans,celluloses and starches. Suitable complexing agents include chitosan,N-trimethylchitosan, poly-L-lysine, polyhistidine, polyornithine,polyspermines, protamine, polyvinylpyridine,polythiodiethylaminomethylethylene P(TDAE), polyaminostyrene (e.g.,p-amino), poly(methylcyanoacrylate), poly(ethylcyanoacrylate),poly(butylcyanoacrylate), poly(isobutylcyanoacrylate),poly(isohexylcynaoacrylate), DEAE-methacrylate, DEAE-hexylacrylate,DEAE-acrylamide, DEAE-albumin and DEAE-dextran, polymethylacrylate,polyhexylacrylate, poly(D,L-lactic acid), poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolicacid (PLGA), alginate, and polyethyleneglycol (PEG). Oral formulationsfor dsRNAs and their preparation are described in detail in U.S. Pat.No. 6,887,906, US Publn. No. 20030027780, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,747,014,each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Compositions and formulations for parenteral, intraparenchymal (into thebrain), intrathecal, intraventricular or intrahepatic administration caninclude sterile aqueous solutions which can also contain buffers,diluents and other suitable additives such as, but not limited to,penetration enhancers, carrier compounds and other pharmaceuticallyacceptable carriers or excipients.

Pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention include, but arenot limited to, solutions, emulsions, and liposome-containingformulations. These compositions can be generated from a variety ofcomponents that include, but are not limited to, preformed liquids,self-emulsifying solids and self-emulsifying semisolids. Particularlypreferred are formulations that target the liver when treating hepaticdisorders such as hepatic carcinoma.

The pharmaceutical formulations of the present invention, which canconveniently be presented in unit dosage form, can be prepared accordingto conventional techniques well known in the pharmaceutical industry.Such techniques include the step of bringing into association the activeingredients with the pharmaceutical carrier(s) or excipient(s). Ingeneral, the formulations are prepared by uniformly and intimatelybringing into association the active ingredients with liquid carriers orfinely divided solid carriers or both, and then, if necessary, shapingthe product.

The compositions of the present invention can be formulated into any ofmany possible dosage forms such as, but not limited to, tablets,capsules, gel capsules, liquid syrups, soft gels, suppositories, andenemas. The compositions of the present invention can also be formulatedas suspensions in aqueous, non-aqueous or mixed media. Aqueoussuspensions can further contain substances which increase the viscosityof the suspension including, for example, sodium carboxymethylcellulose,sorbitol and/or dextran. The suspension can also contain stabilizers.

C. Additional Formulations

i. Emulsions

The compositions of the present invention can be prepared and formulatedas emulsions. Emulsions are typically heterogeneous systems of oneliquid dispersed in another in the form of droplets usually exceeding0.1 μm in diameter (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms andDrug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004,Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, N.Y.; Idson, inPharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988,Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199; Rosoff, inPharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988,Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., Volume 1, p. 245; Block inPharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988,Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 2, p. 335; Higuchi et al.,in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mack Publishing Co., Easton,Pa., 1985, p. 301). Emulsions are often biphasic systems comprising twoimmiscible liquid phases intimately mixed and dispersed with each other.In general, emulsions can be of either the water-in-oil (w/o) or theoil-in-water (o/w) variety. When an aqueous phase is finely divided intoand dispersed as minute droplets into a bulk oily phase, the resultingcomposition is called a water-in-oil (w/o) emulsion. Alternatively, whenan oily phase is finely divided into and dispersed as minute dropletsinto a bulk aqueous phase, the resulting composition is called anoil-in-water (o/w) emulsion. Emulsions can contain additional componentsin addition to the dispersed phases, and the active drug which can bepresent as a solution in either the aqueous phase, oily phase or itselfas a separate phase. Pharmaceutical excipients such as emulsifiers,stabilizers, dyes, and anti-oxidants can also be present in emulsions asneeded. Pharmaceutical emulsions can also be multiple emulsions that arecomprised of more than two phases such as, for example, in the case ofoil-in-water-in-oil (o/w/o) and water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) emulsions.Such complex formulations often provide certain advantages that simplebinary emulsions do not. Multiple emulsions in which individual oildroplets of an o/w emulsion enclose small water droplets constitute aw/o/w emulsion. Likewise a system of oil droplets enclosed in globulesof water stabilized in an oily continuous phase provides an o/w/oemulsion.

Emulsions are characterized by little or no thermodynamic stability.Often, the dispersed or discontinuous phase of the emulsion is welldispersed into the external or continuous phase and maintained in thisform through the means of emulsifiers or the viscosity of theformulation. Either of the phases of the emulsion can be a semisolid ora solid, as is the case of emulsion-style ointment bases and creams.Other means of stabilizing emulsions entail the use of emulsifiers thatcan be incorporated into either phase of the emulsion. Emulsifiers canbroadly be classified into four categories: synthetic surfactants,naturally occurring emulsifiers, absorption bases, and finely dispersedsolids (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug DeliverySystems, Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004, LippincottWilliams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, NY; Idson, in PharmaceuticalDosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker,Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199).

Synthetic surfactants, also known as surface active agents, have foundwide applicability in the formulation of emulsions and have beenreviewed in the literature (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical DosageForms and Drug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel HC., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, N.Y.;Rieger, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker(Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 285;Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker(Eds.), Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., 1988, volume 1, p. 199).Surfactants are typically amphiphilic and comprise a hydrophilic and ahydrophobic portion. The ratio of the hydrophilic to the hydrophobicnature of the surfactant has been termed the hydrophile/lipophilebalance (HLB) and is a valuable tool in categorizing and selectingsurfactants in the preparation of formulations. Surfactants can beclassified into different classes based on the nature of the hydrophilicgroup: nonionic, anionic, cationic and amphoteric (see e.g., Ansel'sPharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V.,Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8thed.), New York, N.Y. Rieger, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman,Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y.,volume 1, p. 285).

Naturally occurring emulsifiers used in emulsion formulations includelanolin, beeswax, phosphatides, lecithin and acacia. Absorption basespossess hydrophilic properties such that they can soak up water to formw/o emulsions yet retain their semisolid consistencies, such asanhydrous lanolin and hydrophilic petrolatum. Finely divided solids havealso been used as good emulsifiers especially in combination withsurfactants and in viscous preparations. These include polar inorganicsolids, such as heavy metal hydroxides, nonswelling clays such asbentonite, attapulgite, hectorite, kaolin, montmorillonite, colloidalaluminum silicate and colloidal magnesium aluminum silicate, pigmentsand nonpolar solids such as carbon or glyceryl tristearate.

A large variety of non-emulsifying materials are also included inemulsion formulations and contribute to the properties of emulsions.These include fats, oils, waxes, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, fattyesters, humectants, hydrophilic colloids, preservatives and antioxidants(Block, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker(Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 335;Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker(Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199).

Hydrophilic colloids or hydrocolloids include naturally occurring gumsand synthetic polymers such as polysaccharides (for example, acacia,agar, alginic acid, carrageenan, guar gum, karaya gum, and tragacanth),cellulose derivatives (for example, carboxymethylcellulose andcarboxypropylcellulose), and synthetic polymers (for example, carbomers,cellulose ethers, and carboxyvinyl polymers). These disperse or swell inwater to form colloidal solutions that stabilize emulsions by formingstrong interfacial films around the dispersed-phase droplets and byincreasing the viscosity of the external phase.

Since emulsions often contain a number of ingredients such ascarbohydrates, proteins, sterols and phosphatides that can readilysupport the growth of microbes, these formulations often incorporatepreservatives. Commonly used preservatives included in emulsionformulations include methyl paraben, propyl paraben, quaternary ammoniumsalts, benzalkonium chloride, esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and boricacid. Antioxidants are also commonly added to emulsion formulations toprevent deterioration of the formulation. Antioxidants used can be freeradical scavengers such as tocopherols, alkyl gallates, butylatedhydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, or reducing agents such asascorbic acid and sodium metabisulfite, and antioxidant synergists suchas citric acid, tartaric acid, and lecithin.

The application of emulsion formulations via dermatological, oral andparenteral routes and methods for their manufacture have been reviewedin the literature (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms andDrug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004,Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, N.Y.; Idson, inPharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988,Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199). Emulsionformulations for oral delivery have been very widely used because ofease of formulation, as well as efficacy from an absorption andbioavailability standpoint (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical DosageForms and Drug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel HC., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, NY; Rosoff,in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.),1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 245; Idson, inPharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988,Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199). Mineral-oil baselaxatives, oil-soluble vitamins and high fat nutritive preparations areamong the materials that have commonly been administered orally as o/wemulsions.

ii. Microemulsions

In one embodiment of the present invention, the compositions of iRNAsand nucleic acids are formulated as microemulsions. A microemulsion canbe defined as a system of water, oil and amphiphile which is a singleoptically isotropic and thermodynamically stable liquid solution (seee.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems,Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004, Lippincott Williams &Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, N.Y.; Rosoff, in Pharmaceutical DosageForms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc.,New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 245). Typically microemulsions are systemsthat are prepared by first dispersing an oil in an aqueous surfactantsolution and then adding a sufficient amount of a fourth component,generally an intermediate chain-length alcohol to form a transparentsystem. Therefore, microemulsions have also been described asthermodynamically stable, isotropically clear dispersions of twoimmiscible liquids that are stabilized by interfacial films ofsurface-active molecules (Leung and Shah, in: Controlled Release ofDrugs: Polymers and Aggregate Systems, Rosoff, M., Ed., 1989, VCHPublishers, New York, pages 185-215). Microemulsions commonly areprepared via a combination of three to five components that include oil,water, surfactant, cosurfactant and electrolyte. Whether themicroemulsion is of the water-in-oil (w/o) or an oil-in-water (o/w) typeis dependent on the properties of the oil and surfactant used and on thestructure and geometric packing of the polar heads and hydrocarbon tailsof the surfactant molecules (Schott, in Remington's PharmaceuticalSciences, Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa., 1985, p. 271).

The phenomenological approach utilizing phase diagrams has beenextensively studied and has yielded a comprehensive knowledge, to oneskilled in the art, of how to formulate microemulsions (see e.g.,Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems, Allen, LV., Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins(8th ed.), New York, N.Y.; Rosoff, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms,Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., NewYork, N.Y., volume 1, p. 245; Block, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms,Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., NewYork, N.Y., volume 1, p. 335). Compared to conventional emulsions,microemulsions offer the advantage of solubilizing water-insoluble drugsin a formulation of thermodynamically stable droplets that are formedspontaneously.

Surfactants used in the preparation of microemulsions include, but arenot limited to, ionic surfactants, non-ionic surfactants, Brij 96,polyoxyethylene oleyl ethers, polyglycerol fatty acid esters,tetraglycerol monolaurate (ML310), tetraglycerol monooleate (MO310),hexaglycerol monooleate (PO310), hexaglycerol pentaoleate (PO500),decaglycerol monocaprate (MCA750), decaglycerol monooleate (MO750),decaglycerol sequioleate (SO750), decaglycerol decaoleate (DAO750),alone or in combination with cosurfactants. The cosurfactant, usually ashort-chain alcohol such as ethanol, 1-propanol, and 1-butanol, servesto increase the interfacial fluidity by penetrating into the surfactantfilm and consequently creating a disordered film because of the voidspace generated among surfactant molecules. Microemulsions can, however,be prepared without the use of cosurfactants and alcohol-freeself-emulsifying microemulsion systems are known in the art. The aqueousphase can typically be, but is not limited to, water, an aqueoussolution of the drug, glycerol, PEG300, PEG400, polyglycerols, propyleneglycols, and derivatives of ethylene glycol. The oil phase can include,but is not limited to, materials such as Captex 300, Captex 355, CapmulMCM, fatty acid esters, medium chain (C8-C12) mono, di, andtri-glycerides, polyoxyethylated glyceryl fatty acid esters, fattyalcohols, polyglycolized glycerides, saturated polyglycolized C8-C10glycerides, vegetable oils and silicone oil.

Microemulsions are particularly of interest from the standpoint of drugsolubilization and the enhanced absorption of drugs. Lipid basedmicroemulsions (both o/w and w/o) have been proposed to enhance the oralbioavailability of drugs, including peptides (see e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos.6,191,105; 7,063,860; 7,070,802; 7,157,099; Constantinides et al.,Pharmaceutical Research, 1994, 11, 1385-1390; Ritschel, Meth. Find. Exp.Clin. Pharmacol., 1993, 13, 205). Microemulsions afford advantages ofimproved drug solubilization, protection of drug from enzymatichydrolysis, possible enhancement of drug absorption due tosurfactant-induced alterations in membrane fluidity and permeability,ease of preparation, ease of oral administration over solid dosageforms, improved clinical potency, and decreased toxicity (see e.g., U.S.Pat. Nos. 6,191,105; 7,063,860; 7,070,802; 7,157,099; Constantinides etal., Pharmaceutical Research, 1994, 11, 1385; Ho et al., J. Pharm. Sci.,1996, 85, 138-143). Often microemulsions can form spontaneously whentheir components are brought together at ambient temperature. This canbe particularly advantageous when formulating thermolabile drugs,peptides or iRNAs. Microemulsions have also been effective in thetransdermal delivery of active components in both cosmetic andpharmaceutical applications. It is expected that the microemulsioncompositions and formulations of the present invention will facilitatethe increased systemic absorption of iRNAs and nucleic acids from thegastrointestinal tract, as well as improve the local cellular uptake ofiRNAs and nucleic acids.

Microemulsions of the present invention can also contain additionalcomponents and additives such as sorbitan monostearate (Grill 3),Labrasol, and penetration enhancers to improve the properties of theformulation and to enhance the absorption of the iRNAs and nucleic acidsof the present invention. Penetration enhancers used in themicroemulsions of the present invention can be classified as belongingto one of five broad categories-surfactants, fatty acids, bile salts,chelating agents, and non-chelating non-surfactants (Lee et al.,Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, p. 92). Eachof these classes has been discussed above.

iii. Microparticles

an RNAi agent of the invention may be incorporated into a particle,e.g., a microparticle. Microparticles can be produced by spray-drying,but may also be produced by other methods including lyophilization,evaporation, fluid bed drying, vacuum drying, or a combination of thesetechniques.

iv. Penetration Enhancers

In one embodiment, the present invention employs various penetrationenhancers to effect the efficient delivery of nucleic acids,particularly iRNAs, to the skin of animals. Most drugs are present insolution in both ionized and nonionized forms. However, usually onlylipid soluble or lipophilic drugs readily cross cell membranes. It hasbeen discovered that even non-lipophilic drugs can cross cell membranesif the membrane to be crossed is treated with a penetration enhancer. Inaddition to aiding the diffusion of non-lipophilic drugs across cellmembranes, penetration enhancers also enhance the permeability oflipophilic drugs.

Penetration enhancers can be classified as belonging to one of fivebroad categories, i.e., surfactants, fatty acids, bile salts, chelatingagents, and non-chelating non-surfactants (see e.g., Malmsten, M.Surfactants and polymers in drug delivery, Informa Health Care, NewYork, N.Y., 2002; Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic DrugCarrier Systems, 1991, p. 92). Each of the above mentioned classes ofpenetration enhancers are described below in greater detail. Surfactants(or “surface-active agents”) are chemical entities which, when dissolvedin an aqueous solution, reduce the surface tension of the solution orthe interfacial tension between the aqueous solution and another liquid,with the result that absorption of iRNAs through the mucosa is enhanced.In addition to bile salts and fatty acids, these penetration enhancersinclude, for example, sodium lauryl sulfate, polyoxyethylene-9-laurylether and polyoxyethylene-20-cetyl ether) (see e.g., Malmsten, M.Surfactants and polymers in drug delivery, Informa Health Care, NewYork, N.Y., 2002; Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic DrugCarrier Systems, 1991, p. 92); and perfluorochemical emulsions, such asFC-43. Takahashi et al., J. Pharm. Pharmacol., 1988, 40, 252).

Various fatty acids and their derivatives which act as penetrationenhancers include, for example, oleic acid, lauric acid, capric acid(n-decanoic acid), myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleicacid, linolenic acid, dicaprate, tricaprate, monoolein(1-monooleoyl-rac-glycerol), dilaurin, caprylic acid, arachidonic acid,glycerol 1-monocaprate, 1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one, acylcarnitines,acylcholines, C₁₋₂₀ alkyl esters thereof (e.g., methyl, isopropyl andt-butyl), and mono- and di-glycerides thereof (i.e., oleate, laurate,caprate, myristate, palmitate, stearate, linoleate, etc.) (see e.g.,Touitou, E., et al. Enhancement in Drug Delivery, CRC Press, Danvers,Mass., 2006; Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug CarrierSystems, 1991, p. 92; Muranishi, Critical Reviews in Therapeutic DrugCarrier Systems, 1990, 7, 1-33; El Hariri et al., J. Pharm. Pharmacol.,1992, 44, 651-654).

The physiological role of bile includes the facilitation of dispersionand absorption of lipids and fat-soluble vitamins (see e.g., Malmsten,M. Surfactants and polymers in drug delivery, Informa Health Care, NewYork, N.Y., 2002; Brunton, Chapter 38 in: Goodman & Gilman's ThePharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 9th Ed., Hardman et al. Eds.,McGraw-Hill, New York, 1996, pp. 934-935). Various natural bile salts,and their synthetic derivatives, act as penetration enhancers. Thus theterm “bile salts” includes any of the naturally occurring components ofbile as well as any of their synthetic derivatives. Suitable bile saltsinclude, for example, cholic acid (or its pharmaceutically acceptablesodium salt, sodium cholate), dehydrocholic acid (sodiumdehydrocholate), deoxycholic acid (sodium deoxycholate), glucholic acid(sodium glucholate), glycholic acid (sodium glycocholate),glycodeoxycholic acid (sodium glycodeoxycholate), taurocholic acid(sodium taurocholate), taurodeoxycholic acid (sodium taurodeoxycholate),chenodeoxycholic acid (sodium chenodeoxycholate), ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA), sodium tauro-24,25-dihydro-fusidate (STDHF), sodiumglycodihydrofusidate and polyoxyethylene-9-lauryl ether (POE) (see e.g.,Malmsten, M. Surfactants and polymers in drug delivery, Informa HealthCare, New York, NY, 2002; Lee et al., Critical Reviews in TherapeuticDrug Carrier Systems, 1991, page 92; Swinyard, Chapter 39 In:Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, 18th Ed., Gennaro, ed., MackPublishing Co., Easton, Pa., 1990, pages 782-783; Muranishi, CriticalReviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1990, 7, 1-33; Yamamoto etal., J. Pharm. Exp. Ther., 1992, 263, 25; Yamashita et al., J. Pharm.Sci., 1990, 79, 579-583).

Chelating agents, as used in connection with the present invention, canbe defined as compounds that remove metallic ions from solution byforming complexes therewith, with the result that absorption of iRNAsthrough the mucosa is enhanced. With regards to their use as penetrationenhancers in the present invention, chelating agents have the addedadvantage of also serving as DNase inhibitors, as most characterized DNAnucleases require a divalent metal ion for catalysis and are thusinhibited by chelating agents (Jarrett, J. Chromatogr., 1993, 618,315-339). Suitable chelating agents include but are not limited todisodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA), citric acid, salicylates(e.g., sodium salicylate, 5-methoxysalicylate and homovanilate), N-acylderivatives of collagen, laureth-9 and N-amino acyl derivatives ofbeta-diketones (enamines)(see e.g., Katdare, A. et al., Excipientdevelopment for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and drug delivery, CRCPress, Danvers, Mass., 2006; Lee et al., Critical Reviews in TherapeuticDrug Carrier Systems, 1991, page 92; Muranishi, Critical Reviews inTherapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1990, 7, 1-33; Buur et al., J. ControlRel., 1990, 14, 43-51).

As used herein, non-chelating non-surfactant penetration enhancingcompounds can be defined as compounds that demonstrate insignificantactivity as chelating agents or as surfactants but that nonethelessenhance absorption of iRNAs through the alimentary mucosa (see e.g.,Muranishi, Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1990,7, 1-33). This class of penetration enhancers includes, for example,unsaturated cyclic ureas, 1-alkyl- and 1-alkenylazacyclo-alkanonederivatives (Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug CarrierSystems, 1991, page 92); and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents suchas diclofenac sodium, indomethacin and phenylbutazone (Yamashita et al.,J. Pharm. Pharmacol., 1987, 39, 621-626).

Agents that enhance uptake of iRNAs at the cellular level can also beadded to the pharmaceutical and other compositions of the presentinvention. For example, cationic lipids, such as lipofectin (Junichi etal, U .S. Pat. No. 5,705,188), cationic glycerol derivatives, andpolycationic molecules, such as polylysine (Lollo et al., PCTApplication WO 97/30731), are also known to enhance the cellular uptakeof dsRNAs. Examples of commercially available transfection reagentsinclude, for example Lipofectamine™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.),Lipofectamine 2000™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), 293fectin™(Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), Cellfectin™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad,Calif.), DMRIE-C™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), FreeStyle™ MAX(Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), Lipofectamine™ 2000 CD (Invitrogen;Carlsbad, Calif.), Lipofectamine™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.),RNAiMAX (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), Oligofectamine™ (Invitrogen;Carlsbad, Calif.), Optifect™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), X-tremeGENEQ2 Transfection Reagent (Roche; Grenzacherstrasse, Switzerland), DOTAPLiposomal Transfection Reagent (Grenzacherstrasse, Switzerland), DOSPERLiposomal Transfection Reagent (Grenzacherstrasse, Switzerland), orFugene (Grenzacherstrasse, Switzerland), Transfectam® Reagent (Promega;Madison, Wis.), TransFast™ Transfection Reagent (Promega; Madison,Wis.), TfxTm-20 Reagent (Promega; Madison, Wis.), TfxTm-50 Reagent(Promega; Madison, Wis.), DreamFect™ (OZ Biosciences; Marseille,France), EcoTransfect (OZ Biosciences; Marseille, France), TransPassa D1Transfection Reagent (New England Biolabs; Ipswich, Mass., USA),LyoVec™/LipoGen™ (Invitrogen; San Diego, Calif., USA), PerFectinTransfection Reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), NeuroPORTERTransfection Reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), GenePORTERTransfection reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), GenePORTER 2Transfection reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), CytofectinTransfection Reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), BaculoPORTERTransfection Reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), TroganPORTER™transfection Reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), RiboFect(Bioline; Taunton, Mass., USA), PlasFect (Bioline; Taunton, Mass., USA),UniFECTOR (B-Bridge International; Mountain View, Calif., USA),SureFECTOR (B-Bridge International; Mountain View, Calif., USA), orHiFect™ (B-Bridge International, Mountain View, Calif., USA), amongothers.

Other agents can be utilized to enhance the penetration of theadministered nucleic acids, including glycols such as ethylene glycoland propylene glycol, pyrrols such as 2-pyrrol, azones, and terpenessuch as limonene and menthone.

v. Carriers

Certain compositions of the present invention also incorporate carriercompounds in the formulation. As used herein, “carrier compound” or“carrier” can refer to a nucleic acid, or analog thereof, which is inert(i.e., does not possess biological activity per se) but is recognized asa nucleic acid by in vivo processes that reduce the bioavailability of anucleic acid having biological activity by, for example, degrading thebiologically active nucleic acid or promoting its removal fromcirculation. The coadministration of a nucleic acid and a carriercompound, typically with an excess of the latter substance, can resultin a substantial reduction of the amount of nucleic acid recovered inthe liver, kidney or other extracirculatory reservoirs, presumably dueto competition between the carrier compound and the nucleic acid for acommon receptor. For example, the recovery of a partiallyphosphorothioate dsRNA in hepatic tissue can be reduced when it iscoadministered with polyinosinic acid, dextran sulfate, polycytidic acidor 4-acetamido-4′isothiocyano-stilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid (Miyao etal., DsRNA Res. Dev., 1995, 5, 115-121; Takakura et al., DsRNA & Nucl.Acid Drug Dev., 1996, 6, 177-183.

vi. Excipients

In contrast to a carrier compound, a “pharmaceutical carrier” or“excipient” is a pharmaceutically acceptable solvent, suspending agentor any other pharmacologically inert vehicle for delivering one or morenucleic acids to an animal. The excipient can be liquid or solid and isselected, with the planned manner of administration in mind, so as toprovide for the desired bulk, consistency, etc., when combined with anucleic acid and the other components of a given pharmaceuticalcomposition. Typical pharmaceutical carriers include, but are notlimited to, binding agents (e.g., pregelatinized maize starch,polyvinylpyrrolidone or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, etc.); fillers(e.g., lactose and other sugars, microcrystalline cellulose, pectin,gelatin, calcium sulfate, ethyl cellulose, polyacrylates or calciumhydrogen phosphate, etc.); lubricants (e.g., magnesium stearate, talc,silica, colloidal silicon dioxide, stearic acid, metallic stearates,hydrogenated vegetable oils, corn starch, polyethylene glycols, sodiumbenzoate, sodium acetate, etc.); disintegrants (e.g., starch, sodiumstarch glycolate, etc.); and wetting agents (e.g., sodium laurylsulphate, etc).

Pharmaceutically acceptable organic or inorganic excipients suitable fornon-parenteral administration which do not deleteriously react withnucleic acids can also be used to formulate the compositions of thepresent invention. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable carriersinclude, but are not limited to, water, salt solutions, alcohols,polyethylene glycols, gelatin, lactose, amylose, magnesium stearate,talc, silicic acid, viscous paraffin, hydroxymethylcellulose,polyvinylpyrrolidone and the like.

Formulations for topical administration of nucleic acids can includesterile and non-sterile aqueous solutions, non-aqueous solutions incommon solvents such as alcohols, or solutions of the nucleic acids inliquid or solid oil bases. The solutions can also contain buffers,diluents and other suitable additives. Pharmaceutically acceptableorganic or inorganic excipients suitable for non-parenteraladministration which do not deleteriously react with nucleic acids canbe used.

Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable excipients include, but are notlimited to, water, salt solutions, alcohol, polyethylene glycols,gelatin, lactose, amylose, magnesium stearate, talc, silicic acid,viscous paraffin, hydroxymethylcellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone and thelike.

vii. Other Components

The compositions of the present invention can additionally contain otheradjunct components conventionally found in pharmaceutical compositions,at their art-established usage levels. Thus, for example, thecompositions can contain additional, compatible, pharmaceutically-activematerials such as, for example, antipruritics, astringents, localanesthetics or anti-inflammatory agents, or can contain additionalmaterials useful in physically formulating various dosage forms of thecompositions of the present invention, such as dyes, flavoring agents,preservatives, antioxidants, opacifiers, thickening agents andstabilizers. However, such materials, when added, should not undulyinterfere with the biological activities of the components of thecompositions of the present invention. The formulations can besterilized and, if desired, mixed with auxiliary agents, e.g.,lubricants, preservatives, stabilizers, wetting agents, emulsifiers,salts for influencing osmotic pressure, buffers, colorings, flavoringsand/or aromatic substances and the like which do not deleteriouslyinteract with the nucleic acid(s) of the formulation.

Aqueous suspensions can contain substances which increase the viscosityof the suspension including, for example, sodium carboxymethylcellulose,sorbitol and/or dextran. The suspension can also contain stabilizers.

In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions featured in theinvention include (a) one or more iRNA compounds and (b) one or moreagents which function by a non-RNAi mechanism and which are useful intreating a hemolytic disorder. Examples of such agents include, but arenot lmited to an anti-inflammatory agent, anti-steatosis agent,anti-viral, and/or anti-fibrosis agent. In addition, other substancescommonly used to protect the liver, such as silymarin, can also be usedin conjunction with the iRNAs described herein. Other agents useful fortreating liver diseases include telbivudine, entecavir, and proteaseinhibitors such as telaprevir and other disclosed, for example, in Tunget al., U.S. Application Publication Nos. 2005/0148548, 2004/0167116,and 2003/0144217; and in Hale et al., U.S. Application Publication No.2004/0127488.

Toxicity and therapeutic efficacy of such compounds can be determined bystandard pharmaceutical procedures in cell cultures or experimentalanimals, e.g., for determining the LD50 (the dose lethal to 50% of thepopulation) and the ED50 (the dose therapeutically effective in 50% ofthe population). The dose ratio between toxic and therapeutic effects isthe therapeutic index and it can be expressed as the ratio LD50/ED50.Compounds that exhibit high therapeutic indices are preferred.

The data obtained from cell culture assays and animal studies can beused in formulating a range of dosage for use in humans. The dosage ofcompositions featured herein in the invention lies generally within arange of circulating concentrations that include the ED50 with little orno toxicity. The dosage can vary within this range depending upon thedosage form employed and the route of administration utilized. For anycompound used in the methods featured in the invention, thetherapeutically effective dose can be estimated initially from cellculture assays. A dose can be formulated in animal models to achieve acirculating plasma concentration range of the compound or, whenappropriate, of the polypeptide product of a target sequence (e.g.,achieving a decreased concentration of the polypeptide) that includesthe IC50 (i.e., the concentration of the test compound which achieves ahalf-maximal inhibition of symptoms) as determined in cell culture. Suchinformation can be used to more accurately determine useful doses inhumans. Levels in plasma can be measured, for example, by highperformance liquid chromatography.

In addition to their administration, as discussed above, the iRNAsfeatured in the invention can be administered in combination with otherknown agents effective in treatment of pathological processes mediatedby C5 expression. In any event, the administering physician can adjustthe amount and timing of iRNA administration on the basis of resultsobserved using standard measures of efficacy known in the art ordescribed herein.

VI. Methods for Inhibiting C5 Expression

The present invention provides methods of inhibiting expression of C5 ina cell. The methods include contacting a cell with an RNAi agent, e.g.,a double stranded RNAi agent, in an amount effective to inhibitexpression of the C5 in the cell, thereby inhibiting expression of theC5 in the cell.

Contacting of a cell with a double stranded RNAi agent may be done invitro or in vivo. Contacting a cell in vivo with the RNAi agent includescontacting a cell or group of cells within a subject, e.g., a humansubject, with the RNAi agent. Combinations of in vitro and in vivomethods of contacting are also possible. Contacting may be direct orindirect, as discussed above. Furthermore, contacting a cell may beaccomplished via a targeting ligand, including any ligand describedherein or known in the art. In preferred embodiments, the targetingligand is a carbohydrate moiety, e.g., a GalNAc3 ligand, or any otherligand that directs the RNAi agent to a site of interest, e.g., theliver of a subject.

The term “inhibiting,” as used herein, is used interchangeably with“reducing,” “silencing,” “downregulating” and other similar terms, andincludes any level of inhibition.

The phrase “inhibiting expression of a C5” is intended to refer toinhibition of expression of any C5 gene (such as, e.g., a mouse C5 gene,a rat C5 gene, a monkey C5 gene, or a human C5 gene) as well as variantsor mutants of a C5 gene. Thus, the C5 gene may be a wild-type C5 gene, amutant C5 gene, or a transgenic C5 gene in the context of a geneticallymanipulated cell, group of cells, or organism.

“Inhibiting expression of a C5 gene” includes any level of inhibition ofa C5 gene, e.g., at least partial suppression of the expression of a C5gene. The expression of the C5 gene may be assessed based on the level,or the change in the level, of any variable associated with C5 geneexpression, e.g., C5 mRNA level, C5 protein level, or for example, CH₅₀activity as a measure of total hemolytic complement, AH₅₀ to measure thehemolytic activity of the alternate pathway of complement, and/orlactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels as a measure of intravascularhemolysis, and/or hemoglobin levels. Levels of C5a, C5b, and solubleC5b-9 complex may also be measured to assess C5 expression. This levelmay be assessed in an individual cell or in a group of cells, including,for example, a sample derived from a subject.

Inhibition may be assessed by a decrease in an absolute or relativelevel of one or more variables that are associated with C5 expressioncompared with a control level. The control level may be any type ofcontrol level that is utilized in the art, e.g., a pre-dose baselinelevel, or a level determined from a similar subject, cell, or samplethat is untreated or treated with a control (such as, e.g., buffer onlycontrol or inactive agent control).

In some embodiments of the methods of the invention, expression of a C5gene is inhibited by at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at leastabout 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%,at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at leastabout 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%,at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at leastabout 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 91%, at least about 92%,at least about 93%, at least about 94%. at least about 95%, at leastabout 96%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, or at least about99%.

Inhibition of the expression of a C5 gene may be manifested by areduction of the amount of mRNA expressed by a first cell or group ofcells (such cells may be present, for example, in a sample derived froma subject) in which a C5 gene is transcribed and which has or have beentreated (e.g., by contacting the cell or cells with an RNAi agent of theinvention, or by administering an RNAi agent of the invention to asubject in which the cells are or were present) such that the expressionof a C5 gene is inhibited, as compared to a second cell or group ofcells substantially identical to the first cell or group of cells butwhich has not or have not been so treated (control cell(s)). Inpreferred embodiments, the inhibition is assessed by expressing thelevel of mRNA in treated cells as a percentage of the level of mRNA incontrol cells, using the following formula:

${\frac{\left( {{mRNA}\mspace{14mu}{in}\mspace{14mu}{control}\mspace{14mu}{cells}} \right) - \left( {{mRNA}\mspace{14mu}{in}\mspace{14mu}{treated}\mspace{14mu}{cells}} \right)}{\left( {{mRNA}\mspace{14mu}{in}\mspace{14mu}{control}\mspace{14mu}{cells}} \right)} \cdot 100}\%$

Alternatively, inhibition of the expression of a C5 gene may be assessedin terms of a reduction of a parameter that is functionally linked to C5gene expression, e.g., C5 protein expression, hepcidin gene or proteinexpression, or iron levels in tissues or serum. C5 gene silencing may bedetermined in any cell expressing C5, either constitutively or bygenomic engineering, and by any assay known in the art. The liver is themajor site of C5 expression. Other significant sites of expressioninclude the kidneys and the uterus.

Inhibition of the expression of a C5 protein may be manifested by areduction in the level of the C5 protein that is expressed by a cell orgroup of cells (e.g., the level of protein expressed in a sample derivedfrom a subject). As explained above for the assessment of mRNAsuppression, the inhibiton of protein expression levels in a treatedcell or group of cells may similarly be expressed as a percentage of thelevel of protein in a control cell or group of cells.

A control cell or group of cells that may be used to assess theinhibition of the expression of a C5 gene includes a cell or group ofcells that has not yet been contacted with an RNAi agent of theinvention. For example, the control cell or group of cells may bederived from an individual subject (e.g., a human or animal subject)prior to treatment of the subject with an RNAi agent.

The level of C5 mRNA that is expressed by a cell or group of cells maybe determined using any method known in the art for assessing mRNAexpression. In one embodiment, the level of expression of C5 in a sampleis determined by detecting a transcribed polynucleotide, or portionthereof, e.g., mRNA of the C5 gene. RNA may be extracted from cellsusing RNA extraction techniques including, for example, using acidphenol/guanidine isothiocyanate extraction (RNAzol B; Biogenesis),RNeasy RNA preparation kits (Qiagen) or PAXgene (PreAnalytix,Switzerland). Typical assay formats utilizing ribonucleic acidhybridization include nuclear run-on assays, RT-PCR, RNase protectionassays (Melton et al., Nuc. Acids Res. 12:7035), Northern blotting, insitu hybridization, and microarray analysis.

In one embodiment, the level of expression of C5 is determined using anucleic acid probe. The term “probe”, as used herein, refers to anymolecule that is capable of selectively binding to a specific C5. Probescan be synthesized by one of skill in the art, or derived fromappropriate biological preparations. Probes may be specifically designedto be labeled. Examples of molecules that can be utilized as probesinclude, but are not limited to, RNA, DNA, proteins, antibodies, andorganic molecules.

Isolated mRNA can be used in hybridization or amplification assays thatinclude, but are not limited to, Southern or Northern analyses,polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analyses and probe arrays. One methodfor the determination of mRNA levels involves contacting the isolatedmRNA with a nucleic acid molecule (probe) that can hybridize to C5 mRNA.In one embodiment, the mRNA is immobilized on a solid surface andcontacted with a probe, for example by running the isolated mRNA on anagarose gel and transferring the mRNA from the gel to a membrane, suchas nitrocellulose. In an alternative embodiment, the probe(s) areimmobilized on a solid surface and the mRNA is contacted with theprobe(s), for example, in an Affymetrix gene chip array. A skilledartisan can readily adapt known mRNA detection methods for use indetermining the level of C5 mRNA.

An alternative method for determining the level of expression of C5 in asample involves the process of nucleic acid amplification and/or reversetranscriptase (to prepare cDNA) of for example mRNA in the sample, e.g.,by RT-PCR (the experimental embodiment set forth in Mullis, 1987, U.S.Pat. No. 4,683,202), ligase chain reaction (Barany (1991) Proc. Natl.Acad. Sci. USA 88:189-193), self sustained sequence replication(Guatelli et al. (1990) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 87:1874-1878),transcriptional amplification system (Kwoh et al. (1989) Proc. Natl.Acad. Sci. USA 86:1173-1177), Q-Beta Replicase (Lizardi et al. (1988)Bio/Technology 6:1197), rolling circle replication (Lizardi et al., U.S.Pat. No. 5,854,033) or any other nucleic acid amplification method,followed by the detection of the amplified molecules using techniqueswell known to those of skill in the art. These detection schemes areespecially useful for the detection of nucleic acid molecules if suchmolecules are present in very low numbers. In particular aspects of theinvention, the level of expression of C5 is determined by quantitativefluorogenic RT-PCR (i.e., the TaqMan™ System).

The expression levels of C5 mRNA may be monitored using a membrane blot(such as used in hybridization analysis such as Northern, Southern, dot,and the like), or microwells, sample tubes, gels, beads or fibers (orany solid support comprising bound nucleic acids). See U.S. Pat. Nos.5,770,722, 5,874,219, 5,744,305, 5,677,195 and 5,445,934, which areincorporated herein by reference. The determination of C5 expressionlevel may also comprise using nucleic acid probes in solution.

In preferred embodiments, the level of mRNA expression is assessed usingbranched DNA (bDNA) assays or real time PCR (qPCR). The use of thesemethods is described and exemplified in the Examples presented herein.

The level of C5 protein expression may be determined using any methodknown in the art for the measurement of protein levels. Such methodsinclude, for example, electrophoresis, capillary electrophoresis, highperformance liquid chromatography (HPLC), thin layer chromatography(TLC), hyperdiffusion chromatography, fluid or gel precipitin reactions,absorption spectroscopy, a colorimetric assays, spectrophotometricassays, flow cytometry, immunodiffusion (single or double),immunoelectrophoresis, Western blotting, radioimmunoassay (RIA),enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), immunofluorescent assays,electrochemiluminescence assays, and the like.

The term “sample” as used herein refers to a collection of similarfluids, cells, or tissues isolated from a subject, as well as fluids,cells, or tissues present within a subject. Examples of biologicalfluids include blood, serum and serosal fluids, plasma, lymph, urine,cerebrospinal fluid, saliva, ocular fluids, and the like. Tissue samplesmay include samples from tissues, organs or localized regions. Forexample, samples may be derived from particular organs, parts of organs,or fluids or cells within those organs. In certain embodiments, samplesmay be derived from the liver (e.g., whole liver or certain segments ofliver or certain types of cells in the liver, such as, e.g.,hepatocytes). In preferred embodiments, a “sample derived from asubject” refers to blood or plasma drawn from the subject. In furtherembodiments, a “sample derived from a subject” refers to liver tissuederived from the subject.

In some embodiments of the methods of the invention, the RNAi agent isadministered to a subject such that the RNAi agent is delivered to aspecific site within the subject. The inhibition of expression of C5 maybe assessed using measurements of the level or change in the level of C5mRNA or C5 protein in a sample derived from fluid or tissue from thespecific site within the subject. In preferred embodiments, the site issthe liver. The site may also be a subsection or subgroup of cells fromany one of the aforementioned sites. The site may also include cellsthat express a particular type of receptor.

The phrase “contacting a cell with an RNAi agent,” such as a dsRNA, asused herein, includes contacting a cell by any possible means.Contacting a cell with an RNAi agent includes contacting a cell in vitrowith the iRNA or contacting a cell in vivo with the iRNA. The contactingmay be done directly or indirectly. Thus, for example, the RNAi agentmay be put into physical contact with the cell by the individualperforming the method, or alternatively, the RNAi agent may be put intoa situation that will permit or cause it to subsequently come intocontact with the cell.

Contacting a cell in vitro may be done, for example, by incubating thecell with the RNAi agent. Contacting a cell in vivo may be done, forexample, by injecting the RNAi agent into or near the tissue where thecell is located, or by injecting the RNAi agent into another area, e.g.,the bloodstream or the subcutaneous space, such that the agent willsubsequently reach the tissue where the cell to be contacted is located.For example, the RNAi agent may contain and/or be coupled to a ligand,e.g., GalNAc3, that directs the RNAi agent to a site of interest, e.g.,the liver. Combinations of in vitro and in vivo methods of contactingare also possible. For example, a cell may also be contacted in vitrowith an RNAi agent and subsequently transplanted into a subject.

In one embodiment, contacting a cell with an iRNA includes “introducing”or “delivering the iRNA into the cell” by facilitating or effectinguptake or absorption into the cell. Absorption or uptake of an iRNA canoccur through unaided diffusive or active cellular processes, or byauxiliary agents or devices. Introducing an iRNA into a cell may be invitro and/or in vivo. For example, for in vivo introduction, iRNA can beinjected into a tissue site or administered systemically. In vivodelivery can also be done by a beta-glucan delivery system, such asthose described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,032,401 and 5,607,677, and U.S.Publication No. 2005/0281781, the entire contents of which are herebyincorporated herein by reference. In vitro introduction into a cellincludes methods known in the art such as electroporation andlipofection. Further approaches are described herein below and/or areknown in the art.

VII. Methods for Treating or Preventing a Complement ComponentC5-Associated Disorder

The present invention also provides therapeutic and prophylactic methodswhich include administering to a subject having a complement componentC5-associated disease, e.g., PNH or aHUS, an iRNA agent, pharmaceuticalcompositions comprising an iRNA agent, or vector comprising an iRNA ofthe invention. In some aspects of the invention, the methods furtherinclude administering to the subject an additional therapeutic agent,such as an anti-complement component C5 antibody, or antigen-bindingfragment thereof (e.g., eculizumab).

In one aspect, the present invention provides methods of treating asubject having a disorder that would benefit from reduction in C5expression, e.g., a complement component C5-associated disease, e.g.,PNH or aHUS. The treatment methods (and uses) of the invention includeadministering to the subject, e.g., a human, a therapeutically effectiveamount of an iRNA agent targeting a C5 gene or a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising an iRNA agent targeting a C5 gene, therebytreating the subject having a disorder that would benefit from reductionin C5 expression.

In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of treating asubject having a disorder that would benefit from reduction in C5expression, e.g., a complement component C5-associated disease, e.g.,PNH or aHUS, which include administering to the subject, e.g., a human,a therapeutically effective amount of an iRNA agent targeting a C5 geneor a pharmaceutical composition comprising an iRNA agent targeting a C5gene, and an additional therapeutic agent, such as an anti-complementcomponent C5 antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof (e.g.,eculizumab), thereby treating the subject having a disorder that wouldbenefit from reduction in C5 expression.

In one aspect, the invention provides methods of preventing at least onesymptom in a subject having a disorder that would benefit from reductionin C5 expression, e.g., a complement component C5-associated disease,e.g., PNH or aHUS. The methods include administering to the subject aprohpylactically effective amount of the iRNA agent, e.g., dsRNA, orvector of the invention, thereby preventing at least one symptom in thesubject having a disorder that would benefit from reduction in C5expression. For example, the invention provides methods for preventinghemolysis in a subject suffering from a disorder that would benefit fromreduction in C5 expression, e.g., a complement component C5-associateddisease, e.g., PNH or aHUS.

In another aspect, the invention provides methods of preventing at leastone symptom in a subject having a disorder that would benefit fromreduction in C5 expression, e.g., a complement component C5-associateddisease, e.g., PNH or aHUS. The methods include administering to thesubject a prohpylactically effective amount of the iRNA agent, e.g.,dsRNA, or vector of the invention, and an additional therapeutic agent,such as an anti-complement component C5 antibody, or antigen-bindingfragment thereof (e.g., eculizumab), thereby preventing at least onesymptom in the subject having a disorder that would benefit fromreduction in C5 expression.

“Therapeutically effective amount,” as used herein, is intended toinclude the amount of an RNAi agent or anti-complement component C5antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof (e.g., eculizumab), that,when administered to a subject having a complement componentC5-associated disease, is sufficient to effect treatment of the disease(e.g., by diminishing, ameliorating or maintaining the existing diseaseor one or more symptoms of disease). The “therapeutically effectiveamount” may vary depending on the RNAi agent or antibody, orantigen-binding fragment thereof, how the agent is administered, thedisease and its severity and the history, age, weight, family history,genetic makeup, the types of preceding or concomitant treatments, ifany, and other individual characteristics of the subject to be treated.

“Prophylactically effective amount,” as used herein, is intended toinclude the amount of an iRNA agent or anti-complement component C5antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof (e.g., eculizumab), that,when administered to a subject having a complement componentC5-associate disease but not yet (or currently) experiencing ordisplaying symptoms of the disease, and/or a subject at risk ofdeveloping a complement component C5-associated disease, e.g., a subjecthaving a graft and/or transplant, e.g., a sensitized or allogenicrecipient, a subject having sepsis, and/or a subject having a myocardialinfarction, is sufficient to prevent or ameliorate the disease or one ormore symptoms of the disease. Ameliorating the disease includes slowingthe course of the disease or reducing the severity of later-developingdisease. The “prophylactically effective amount” may vary depending onthe iRNA agent or anti-complement component C5 antibody, orantigen-binding fragment thereof, how the agent or anti-complementcomponent C5 antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof, isadministered, the degree of risk of disease, and the history, age,weight, family history, genetic makeup, the types of preceding orconcomitant treatments, if any, and other individual characteristics ofthe patient to be treated.

A “therapeutically effective amount” or “prophylactically effectiveamount” also includes an amount of an RNAi agent or anti-complementcomponent C5 antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof (e.g.,eculizumab), that produces some desired local or systemic effect at areasonable benefit/risk ratio applicable to any treatment. iRNA agentsemployed in the methods of the present invention may be administered ina sufficient amount to produce a reasonable benefit/risk ratioapplicable to such treatment.

In another aspect, the present invention provides uses of atherapeutically effective amount of an iRNA agent of the invention fortreating a subject, e.g., a subject that would benefit from a reductionand/or inhibition of C5 expression.

In another aspect, the present invention provides uses of atherapeutically effective amount of an iRNA agent of the invention andan additional therapeutic agent, such as an anti-complement component C5antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof (e.g., eculizumab), fortreating a subject, e.g., a subject that would benefit from a reductionand/or inhibition of C5 expression.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides use of an iRNAagent, e.g., a dsRNA, of the invention targeting a C5 gene or apharmaceutical composition comprising an iRNA agent targeting a C5 genein the manufacture of a medicament for treating a subject, e.g., asubject that would benefit from a reduction and/or inhibition of C5expression, such as a subject having a disorder that would benefit fromreduction in C5 expression, e.g., a complement component C5-associateddisease, e.g., PNH or aHUS.

In another aspect, the present invention provides uses of an iRNA agent,e.g., a dsRNA, of the invention targeting a C5 gene or a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising an iRNA agent targeting a C5 gene in themanufacture of a medicament for use in combination with an additionaltherapeutic agent, such as an anti-complement component C5 antibody, orantigen-binding fragment thereof (e.g., eculizumab), for treating asubject, e.g., a subject that would benefit from a reduction and/orinhibition of C5 expression, e.g., a complement component C5-associateddisease, e.g., PNH or aHUS.

In another aspect, the invention provides uses of an iRNA, e.g., adsRNA, of the invention for preventing at least one symptom in a subjectsuffering from a disorder that would benefit from a reduction and/orinhibition of C5 expression, such as a complement componentC5-associated disease, e.g., PNH or aHUS.

In yet another aspect, the invention provides uses of an iRNA agent,e.g., a dsRNA, of the invention, and an additional therapeutic agent,such as an anti-complement component C5 antibody, or antigen-bindingfragment thereof (e.g., eculizumab), for preventing at least one symptomin a subject suffering from a disorder that would benefit from areduction and/or inhibition of C5 expression, such as a complementcomponent C5-associated disease, e.g., PNH or aHUS.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides uses of an iRNAagent of the invention in the manufacture of a medicament for preventingat least one symptom in a subject suffering from a disorder that wouldbenefit from a reduction and/or inhibition of C5 expression, such as a acomplement component C5-associated disease, e.g., PNH or aHUS.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides uses of an iRNAagent of the invention in the manufacture of a medicament for use incombination with an additional therapeutic agent, such as ananti-complement component C5 antibody, or antigen-binding fragmentthereof (e.g., eculizumab), for preventing at least one symptom in asubject suffering from a disorder that would benefit from a reductionand/or inhibition of C5 expression, such as a a complement componentC5-associated disease, e.g., PNH or aHUS.

In one embodiment, an iRNA agent targeting C5 is administered to asubject having a complement component C5-associated disease such that C5levels, e.g., in a cell, tissue, blood, urine or other tissue or fluidof the subject are reduced by at least about 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%,15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%,29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%,43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%,57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 62%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%,71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%,85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, orat least about 99% or more and, subsequently, an additional therapeutic(as described below) is administered to the subject.

The additional therapeutic may be an anti-complement component C5antibody, or antigen-binding fragment or derivative thereof In oneembodiment, the anti-complement component C5 antibody is eculizumab(SOLIRIS®), or antigen-binding fragment or derivative thereof.Eculizumab is a humanized monoclonal IgG2/4, kappa light chain antibodythat specifically binds complement component C5 with high affinity andinhibits cleavage of C5 to C5a and C5b, thereby inhibiting thegeneration of the terminal complement complex C5b-9. Eculizumab isdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,355,245, the entire contents of which areincorporated herein by reference.

The methods of the invention comprising administration of an iRNA agentof the invention and eculizumab to a subject may further compriseadministration of a meningococcal vaccine to the subject.

The additional therapeutic, e.g., eculizumab and/or a meningococcalvaccine, may be administered to the subject at the same time as the iRNAagent targeting C5 or at a different time.

Moreover, the additional therapeutic, e.g., eculizumab, may beadministered to the subject in the same formulation as the iRNA agenttargeting C5 or in a different formulation as the iRNA agent targetingC5.

Eculizumab dosage regimens are described in, for example, the productinsert for eculizumab (SOLIRIS®) and in U.S. Patent Application No.2012/0225056, the entire contents of each of which are incorporatedherein by reference. In exemplary methods of the invention for treatinga complement component C5-associated disease, e.g., PNH or aHUS, an iRNAagent targeting C5 is administered (e.g., subcutaneously) to the subjectfirst, such that the C5 levels in the subject are reduced (e.g., by atleast about 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%,32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%,46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%,60%, 61%, 62%, 62%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%,74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%,88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or at least about99% or more) and subsequently eculizumab is administered at doses lowerthan the ones described in the product insert for SOLIRIS®. For example,eculizumab may be adminsitered to the subject weekly at a dose less thanabout 600 mg for 4 weeks followed by a fifth dose at about one weeklater of less than about 900 mg, followed by a dose less than about 900mg about every two weeks thereafter. Eculizumab may also be administeredto the subject weekly at a dose less than about 900 mg for 4 weeksfollowed by a fifth dose at about one week later of less than about 1200mg, followed by a dose less than about 1200 mg about every two weeksthereafter. If the subject is less than 18 years of age, eculizumab maybe administered to the subject weekly at a dose less than about 900 mgfor 4 weeks followed by a fifth dose at about one week later of lessthan about 1200 mg, followed by a dose less than about 1200 mg aboutevery two weeks thereafter; or if the subject is less than 18 years ofage, eculizumab may be administered to the subject weekly at a dose lessthan about 600 mg for 2 weeks followed by a third dose at about one weeklater of less than about 900 mg, followed by a dose less than about 900mg about every two weeks thereafter; or if the subject is less than 18years of age, eculizumab may be administered to the subject weekly at adose less than about 600 mg for 2 weeks followed by a third dose atabout one week later of less than about 600 mg, followed by a dose lessthan about 600 mg about every two weeks thereafter; or if the subject isless than 18 years of age, eculizumab may be administered to the subjectweekly at a dose less than about 600 mg for 1 week followed by a seconddose at about one week later of less than about 300 mg, followed by adose less than about 300 mg about every two weeks thereafter; or if thesubject is less than 18 years of age, eculizumab may be administered tothe subject weekly at a dose less than about 300 mg for 1 week followedby a second dose at about one week later of less than about 300 mg,followed by a dose less than about 300 mg about every two weeksthereafter. If the subject is receiving plamapheresis or plasmaexchange, eculizumab may be administered to the subject at a dose lessthan about 300 mg (e.g., if the most recent does of eculizumab was about300 mg) or less than about 600 mg (e.g., if the most recent does ofeculizumab was about 600 mg or more). If the subject is receiving plasmainfusion, eculizumab may be administered to the subject at a dose lessthan about 300 mg (e.g., if the most recent does of eculizumab was about300 mg or more). The lower doses of eculizumab allow for eithersubcutaneous or intravenous administration of eculizumab.

In the combination therapies of the present invention comprisingeculizumab, eculizumab may be adminisitered to the subject, e.g.,subcutaneously, at a dose of about 0.01 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, orabout 5 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, or about 0.5 mg/kg to about 15 mg/kg.For example, eculizumab may be administered to the subject, e.g.,subcutaneously, at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg, 2.5mg/kg, 3 mg/kg, 3.5 mg/kg, 4 mg/kg, 4.5 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 5.5 mg/kg, 6mg/kg, 6.5 mg/kg, 7 mg/kg, 7.5 mg/kg, 8 mg/kg, 8.5 mg/kg, 9 mg/kg, 9.5mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, 10.5 mg/kg, 11 mg/kg, 11.5 mg/kg, 12 mg/kg, 12.5 mg/kg,13 mg/kg, 13.5 mg/kg, 14 mg/kg, 14.5 mg/kg, or15 mg/kg.

The methods and uses of the invention include administering acomposition described herein such that expression of the target C5 geneis decreased, such as for about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 16, 18, 24,28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, or about 80 hours.In one embodiment, expression of the target C5 gene is decreased for anextended duration, e.g., at least about two, three, four, five, six,seven days or more, e.g., about one week, two weeks, three weeks, orabout four weeks or longer.

Administration of the dsRNA according to the methods and uses of theinvention may result in a reduction of the severity, signs, symptoms,and/or markers of such diseases or disorders in a patient with acomplement component C5-associated disease. By “reduction” in thiscontext is meant a statistically significant decrease in such level. Thereduction can be, for example, at least about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%,30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, orabout 100%.

Efficacy of treatment or prevention of disease can be assessed, forexample by measuring disease progression, disease remission, symptomseverity, reduction in pain, quality of life, dose of a medicationrequired to sustain a treatment effect, level of a disease marker or anyother measurable parameter appropriate for a given disease being treatedor targeted for prevention. It is well within the ability of one skilledin the art to monitor efficacy of treatment or prevention by measuringany one of such parameters, or any combination of parameters. Forexample, efficacy of treatment of a hemolytic disorder may be assessed,for example, by periodic monitoring of LDH and CH₅₀ levels. Comparisonsof the later readings with the initial readings provide a physician anindication of whether the treatment is effective. It is well within theability of one skilled in the art to monitor efficacy of treatment orprevention by measuring any one of such parameters, or any combinationof parameters. In connection with the administration of an iRNAtargeting C5 or pharmaceutical composition thereof, “effective against”a complement component C5-associated disease indicates thatadministration in a clinically appropriate manner results in abeneficial effect for at least a statistically significant fraction ofpatients, such as improvement of symptoms, a cure, a reduction indisease, extension of life, improvement in quality of life, or othereffect generally recognized as positive by medical doctors familiar withtreating a complement component C5-associated disease and the relatedcauses.

A treatment or preventive effect is evident when there is astatistically significant improvement in one or more parameters ofdisease status, or by a failure to worsen or to develop symptoms wherethey would otherwise be anticipated. As an example, a favorable changeof at least 10% in a measurable parameter of disease, and preferably atleast 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% or more can be indicative of effectivetreatment. Efficacy for a given iRNA drug or formulation of that drugcan also be judged using an experimental animal model for the givendisease as known in the art. When using an experimental animal model,efficacy of treatment is evidenced when a statistically significantreduction in a marker or symptom is observed.

Alternatively, the efficacy can be measured by a reduction in theseverity of disease as determined by one skilled in the art of diagnosisbased on a clinically accepted disease severity grading scale, as butone example the Rheumatoid Arthritis Severity Scale (RASS). Any positivechange resulting in e.g., lessening of severity of disease measuredusing the appropriate scale, represents adequate treatment using an iRNAor iRNA formulation as described herein.

Subjects can be administered a therapeutic amount of iRNA, such as about0.01 mg/kg, 0.02 mg/kg, 0.03 mg/kg, 0.04 mg/kg, 0.05 mg/kg, 0.1 mg/kg,0.15 mg/kg, 0.2 mg/kg, 0.25 mg/kg, 0.3 mg/kg, 0.35 mg/kg, 0.4 mg/kg,0.45 mg/kg, 0.5 mg/kg, 0.55 mg/kg, 0.6 mg/kg, 0.65 mg/kg, 0.7 mg/kg,0.75 mg/kg, 0.8 mg/kg, 0.85 mg/kg, 0.9 mg/kg, 0.95 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg, 1.1mg/kg, 1.2 mg/kg, 1.3 mg/kg, 1.4mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 1.6 mg/kg, 1.7 mg/kg,1.8 mg/kg, 1.9 mg/kg, 2.0 mg/kg, 2.1mg/kg, 2.2mg/kg, 2.3 mg/kg, 2.4mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg dsRNA, 2.6 mg/kg dsRNA, 2.7 mg/kg dsRNA, 2.8 mg/kgdsRNA, 2.9 mg/kg dsRNA, 3.0 mg/kg dsRNA, 3.1 mg/kg dsRNA, 3.2 mg/kgdsRNA, 3.3 mg/kg dsRNA, 3.4 mg/kg dsRNA, 3.5 mg/kg dsRNA, 3.6 mg/kgdsRNA, 3.7 mg/kg dsRNA, 3.8 mg/kg dsRNA, 3.9 mg/kg dsRNA, 4.0 mg/kgdsRNA, 4.1 mg/kg dsRNA, 4.2 mg/kg dsRNA, 4.3 mg/kg dsRNA, 4.4 mg/kgdsRNA, 4.5 mg/kg dsRNA, 4.6 mg/kg dsRNA, 4.7 mg/kg dsRNA, 4.8 mg/kgdsRNA, 4.9 mg/kg dsRNA, 5.0 mg/kg dsRNA, 5.1 mg/kg dsRNA, 5.2 mg/kgdsRNA, 5.3 mg/kg dsRNA, 5.4 mg/kg dsRNA, 5.5 mg/kg dsRNA, 5.6 mg/kgdsRNA, 5.7 mg/kg dsRNA, 5.8 mg/kg dsRNA, 5.9 mg/kg dsRNA, 6.0 mg/kgdsRNA, 6.1 mg/kg dsRNA, 6.2 mg/kg dsRNA, 6.3 mg/kg dsRNA, 6.4 mg/kgdsRNA, 6.5 mg/kg dsRNA, 6.6 mg/kg dsRNA, 6.7 mg/kg dsRNA, 6.8 mg/kgdsRNA, 6.9 mg/kg dsRNA, 7.0 mg/kg dsRNA, 7.1 mg/kg dsRNA, 7.2 mg/kgdsRNA, 7.3 mg/kg dsRNA, 7.4 mg/kg dsRNA, 7.5 mg/kg dsRNA, 7.6 mg/kgdsRNA, 7.7 mg/kg dsRNA, 7.8 mg/kg dsRNA, 7.9 mg/kg dsRNA, 8.0 mg/kgdsRNA, 8.1 mg/kg dsRNA, 8.2 mg/kg dsRNA, 8.3 mg/kg dsRNA, 8.4 mg/kgdsRNA, 8.5 mg/kg dsRNA, 8.6 mg/kg dsRNA, 8.7 mg/kg dsRNA, 8.8 mg/kgdsRNA, 8.9 mg/kg dsRNA, 9.0 mg/kg dsRNA, 9.1 mg/kg dsRNA, 9.2 mg/kgdsRNA, 9.3 mg/kg dsRNA, 9.4 mg/kg dsRNA, 9.5 mg/kg dsRNA, 9.6 mg/kgdsRNA, 9.7 mg/kg dsRNA, 9.8 mg/kg dsRNA, 9.9 mg/kg dsRNA, 9.0 mg/kgdsRNA, 10 mg/kg dsRNA, 15 mg/kg dsRNA, 20 mg/kg dsRNA, 25 mg/kg dsRNA,30 mg/kg dsRNA, 35 mg/kg dsRNA, 40 mg/kg dsRNA, 45 mg/kg dsRNA, or about50 mg/kg dsRNA. Values and ranges intermediate to the recited values arealso intended to be part of this invention.

In certain embodiments, for example, when a composition of the inventioncomprises a dsRNA as described herein and a lipid, subjects can beadministered a therapeutic amount of iRNA, such as about 0.01 mg/kg toabout 5 mg/kg, about 0.01 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 0.05 mg/kg toabout 5 mg/kg, about 0.05 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 0.1 mg/kg toabout 5 mg/kg, about 0.1 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 0.2 mg/kg toabout 5 mg/kg, about 0.2 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 0.3 mg/kg toabout 5 mg/kg, about 0.3 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 0.4 mg/kg toabout 5 mg/kg, about 0.4 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 0.5 mg/kg toabout 5 mg/kg, about 0.5 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 1 mg/kg to about5 mg/kg, about 1 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 1.5 mg/kg to about 5mg/kg, about 1.5 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 2 mg/kg to about about2.5 mg/kg, about 2 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 3 mg/kg to about 5mg/kg, about 3 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 3.5 mg/kg to about 5mg/kg, about 4 mg/kg to about 5 mg/kg, about 4.5 mg/kg to about 5 mg/kg,about 4 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 4.5 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg,about 5 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 5.5 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg,about 6 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 6.5 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg,about 7 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 7.5 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg,about 8 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, about 8.5 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg,about 9 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, or about 9.5 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg.Values and ranges intermediate to the recited values are also intendedto be part of this invention.

For example, the dsRNA may be administered at a dose of about 0.1, 0.2,0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7,1.8, 1.9, 2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, 3.1, 3.2,3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7,4.8, 4.9, 5, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 6, 6.1, 6.2,6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.7, 6.8, 6.9, 7, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7,7.8, 7.9, 8, 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.6, 8.7, 8.8, 8.9, 9, 9.1, 9.2,9.3, 9.4, 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, or about 10 mg/kg. Values and rangesintermediate to the recited values are also intended to be part of thisinvention.

In other embodiments, for example, when a composition of the inventioncomprises a dsRNA as described herein and an N-acetylgalactosamine,subjects can be administered a therapeutic amount of iRNA, such as adose of about 0.1 to about 50 mg/kg, about 0.25 to about 50 mg/kg, about0.5 to about 50 mg/kg, about 0.75 to about 50 mg/kg, about 1 to about 50mg/mg, about 1.5 to about 50 mg/kb, about 2 to about 50 mg/kg, about 2.5to about 50 mg/kg, about 3 to about 50 mg/kg, about 3.5 to about 50mg/kg, about 4 to about 50 mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 50 mg/kg, about 5to about 50 mg/kg, about 7.5 to about 50 mg/kg, about 10 to about 50mg/kg, about 15 to about 50 mg/kg, about 20 to about 50 mg/kg, about 20to about 50 mg/kg, about 25 to about 50 mg/kg, about 25 to about 50mg/kg, about 30 to about 50 mg/kg, about 35 to about 50 mg/kg, about 40to about 50 mg/kg, about 45 to about 50 mg/kg, about 0.1 to about 45mg/kg, about 0.25 to about 45 mg/kg, about 0.5 to about 45 mg/kg, about0.75 to about 45 mg/kg, about 1 to about 45 mg/mg, about 1.5 to about 45mg/kb, about 2 to about 45 mg/kg, about 2.5 to about 45 mg/kg, about 3to about 45 mg/kg, about 3.5 to about 45 mg/kg, about 4 to about 45mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 45 mg/kg, about 5 to about 45 mg/kg, about 7.5to about 45 mg/kg, about 10 to about 45 mg/kg, about 15 to about 45mg/kg, about 20 to about 45 mg/kg, about 20 to about 45 mg/kg, about 25to about 45 mg/kg, about 25 to about 45 mg/kg, about 30 to about 45mg/kg, about 35 to about 45 mg/kg, about 40 to about 45 mg/kg, about 0.1to about 40 mg/kg, about 0.25 to about 40 mg/kg, about 0.5 to about 40mg/kg, about 0.75 to about 40 mg/kg, about 1 to about 40 mg/mg, about1.5 to about 40 mg/kb, about 2 to about 40 mg/kg, about 2.5 to about 40mg/kg, about 3 to about 40 mg/kg, about 3.5 to about 40 mg/kg, about 4to about 40 mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 40 mg/kg, about 5 to about 40mg/kg, about 7.5 to about 40 mg/kg, about 10 to about 40 mg/kg, about 15to about 40 mg/kg, about 20 to about 40 mg/kg, about 20 to about 40mg/kg, about 25 to about 40 mg/kg, about 25 to about 40 mg/kg, about 30to about 40 mg/kg, about 35 to about 40 mg/kg, about 0.1 to about 30mg/kg, about 0.25 to about 30 mg/kg, about 0.5 to about 30 mg/kg, about0.75 to about 30 mg/kg, about 1 to about 30 mg/mg, about 1.5 to about 30mg/kb, about 2 to about 30 mg/kg, about 2.5 to about 30 mg/kg, about 3to about 30 mg/kg, about 3.5 to about 30 mg/kg, about 4 to about 30mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 30 mg/kg, about 5 to about 30 mg/kg, about 7.5to about 30 mg/kg, about 10 to about 30 mg/kg, about 15 to about 30mg/kg, about 20 to about 30 mg/kg, about 20 to about 30 mg/kg, about 25to about 30 mg/kg, about 0.1 to about 20 mg/kg, about 0.25 to about 20mg/kg, about 0.5 to about 20 mg/kg, about 0.75 to about 20 mg/kg, about1 to about 20 mg/mg, about 1.5 to about 20 mg/kb, about 2 to about 20mg/kg, about 2.5 to about 20 mg/kg, about 3 to about 20 mg/kg, about 3.5to about 20 mg/kg, about 4 to about 20 mg/kg, about 4.5 to about 20mg/kg, about 5 to about 20 mg/kg, about 7.5 to about 20 mg/kg, about 10to about 20 mg/kg, or about 15 to about 20 mg/kg. In one embodiment,when a composition of the invention comprises a dsRNA as describedherein and an N-acetylgalactosamine, subjects can be administered atherapeutic amount of about 10 to about 30 mg/kg of dsRNA. Values andranges intermediate to the recited values are also intended to be partof this invention.

For example, subjects can be administered a therapeutic amount of iRNA,such as about 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2,1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7,2.8, 2.9, 3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4, 4.1, 4.2,4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, 5, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7,5.8, 5.9, 6, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.7, 6.8, 6.9, 7, 7.1, 7.2,7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7, 7.8, 7.9, 8, 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.6, 8.7,8.8, 8.9, 9, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, 10, 10.5, 11,11.5, 12, 12.5, 13, 13.5, 14, 14.5, 15, 15.5, 16, 16.5, 17, 17.5, 18,18.5, 19, 19.5, 20, 20.5, 21, 21.5, 22, 22.5, 23, 23.5, 24, 24.5, 25,25.5, 26, 26.5, 27, 27.5, 28, 28.5, 29, 29.5, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 34,35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or about 50mg/kg. Values and ranges intermediate to the recited values are alsointended to be part of this invention.

The iRNA can be administered by intravenous infusion over a period oftime, such as over a 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18,19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, or about a 25 minute period. The administrationmay be repeated, for example, on a regular basis, such as weekly,biweekly (i.e., every two weeks) for one month, two months, threemonths, four months or longer. After an initial treatment regimen, thetreatments can be administered on a less frequent basis. For example,after administration weekly or biweekly for three months, administrationcan be repeated once per month, for six months or a year or longer.

Administration of the iRNA can reduce C5 levels, e.g., in a cell,tissue, blood, urine or other compartment of the patient by at leastabout 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%,19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%,33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%,47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%,61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%,75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%,89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or at least about 99%or more.

Before administration of a full dose of the iRNA, patients can beadministered a smaller dose, such as a 5% infusion, and monitored foradverse effects, such as an allergic reaction. In another example, thepatient can be monitored for unwanted immunostimulatory effects, such asincreased cytokine (e.g., TNF-alpha or INF-alpha) levels.

Owing to the inhibitory effects on C5 expression, a compositionaccording to the invention or a pharmaceutical composition preparedtherefrom can enhance the quality of life.

An iRNA of the invention may be administered in “naked” form, or as a“free iRNA.” A naked iRNA is administered in the absence of apharmaceutical composition. The naked iRNA may be in a suitable buffersolution. The buffer solution may comprise acetate, citrate, prolamine,carbonate, or phosphate, or any combination thereof In one embodiment,the buffer solution is phosphate buffered saline (PBS). The pH andosmolarity of the buffer solution containing the iRNA can be adjustedsuch that it is suitable for administering to a subject.

Alternatively, an iRNA of the invention may be administered as apharmaceutical composition, such as a dsRNA liposomal formulation.

Subjects that would benefit from a reduction and/or inhibition of C5geneexpression are those having a complement component C5-associated diseaseor disorder as described herein. In one embodiment, a subject having acomplement component C5-associated disease has paroxysmal nocturnalhemoglobinuria (PNH). In another embodiment, a subject having acomplement component C5-associated disease has asthma. In anotherembodiment, a subject having a complement component C5-associateddisease has rheumatoid arthritis. In yet another embodiment, a subjecthaving a complement component C5-associated disease has systemic lupuserythmatosis. In one embodiment, a subject having a complement componentC5-associated disease has glomerulonephritis. In another embodiment, asubject having a complement component C5-associated disease haspsoriasis. In yet another embodiment, a subject having a complementcomponent C5-associated disease has dermatomyositis bullous pemphigoid.In one embodiment, a subject having a complement component C5-associateddisease has atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. In another embodiment, asubject having a complement component C5-associated disease has Shigatoxin E. coli-related hemolytic uremic syndrome. In anothre embodiment,a subject having a complement component C5-associated disease hasmyasthenia gravis. In yet another embodiment, a subject having acomplement component C5-associated disease has neuromyelistis optica. Inone embodiment, a subject having a complement component C5-associateddisease has dense deposit disease. In one embodiment, a subject having acomplement component C5-associated disease has C3 neuropathy. In anotherembodiment, a subject having a complement component C5-associateddisease has age-related macular degeneration. In another embodiment, asubject having a complement component C5-associated disease has coldagglutinin disease. In one embodiment, a subject having a complementcomponent C5-associated disease has anti-neutrophil cytoplasmicantibody-associated vasculitis. In another embodiment, a subject havinga complement component C5-associated disease has humoral and vasculartransplant rejection. In one embodiment, a subject having a complementcomponent C5-associated disease has graft dysfunction. In oneembodiment, a subject having a complement component C5-associateddisease has had a myocardial infarction. In another embodiment, asubject having a complement component C5-associated disease is asensitized recipient of a transplant. In yet another embodiment, asubject having a complement component C5-associated disease has sepsis.

Treatment of a subject that would benefit from a reduction and/orinhibition of C5 gene expression includes therapeutic and prophylactic(e.g., the subject is to undergo sensitized (or allogenic) transplantsurgery) treatment.

The invention further provides methods and uses of an iRNA agent or apharmaceutical composition thereof (including methods and uses of aniRNA agent or a pharmaceutical composition comprising an iRNA agent andan anti-complement component C5 antibody, or antigen-bidning fragmentthereof) for treating a subject that would benefit from reduction and/orinhibition of C5 expression, e.g., a subject having a complementcomponent C5-associated disease, in combination with otherpharmaceuticals and/or other therapeutic methods, e.g., with knownpharmaceuticals and/or known therapeutic methods, such as, for example,those which are currently employed for treating these disorders. Forexample, in certain embodiments, an iRNA targeting C5 is administered incombination with, e.g., an agent useful in treating a complementcomponent C5-associated disease as described elsewhere herein.

For example, additional therapeutics and therapeutic methods suitablefor treating a subject that would benefit from reducton in C5expression, e.g., a subject having a complement component C5-associateddisease, include plasmaphoresis, thrombolytic therapy (e.g.,streptokinase), antiplatelet agents, folic acid, corticosteroids;immunosuppressive agents; estrogens, methotrexate, azathioprinesulphasalazine, mesalazine, olsalazine,chloroquinine/hydroxychloroquine, pencillamine, aurothiomalate(intramuscular and oral), azathioprine, cochicine, corticosteroids(oral, inhaled and local injection), beta-2 adrenoreceptor agonists(salbutamol, terbutaline, salmeteral), xanthines (theophylline,aminophylline), cromoglycate, nedocromil, ketotifen, ipratropium andoxitropium, cyclosporin, FK506, rapamycin, mycophenolate mofetil,leflunomide, NSAIDs, for example, ibuprofen, corticosteroids such asprednisolone, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, adensosine agonists,antithrombotic agents, complement inhibitors, adrenergic agents, agentswhich interfere with signalling by proinflammatory cytokines, such asTNF-a or IL-1 (e.g., IRAK, NIK, IKK, p38 or MAP kinase inhibitors),IL-1β converting enzyme inhibitors, TNFα converting enzyme (TACE)inhibitors, T-cell signalling inhibitors, such as kinase inhibitors,metalloproteinase inhibitors, sulfasalazine, azathioprine,6-mercaptopurines, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, solublecytokine receptors and derivatives thereof (e.g., soluble p55 or p75 TNFreceptors and the derivatives p75TNFRIgG (Enbrel™ and p55TNFRIgG(Lenercept)), sIL-1RI, sIL-1RII, and sIL-6R), antiinflammatory cytokines(e.g., IL-4, IL-10, IL-11, IL-13 and TGFβ), celecoxib, folic acid,hydroxychloroquine sulfate, rofecoxib, etanercept, infliximonoclonalantibody, naproxen, valdecoxib, sulfasalazine, methylprednisolone,meloxicam, methylprednisolone acetate, gold sodium thiomalate, aspirin,triamcinolone acetonide, propoxyphene napsylate/apap, folate,nabumetone, diclofenac, piroxicam, etodolac, diclofenac sodium,oxaprozin, oxycodone hcl, hydrocodone bitartrate/apap, diclofenacsodium/misoprostol, fentanyl, anakinra, human recombinant, tramadol hcl,salsalate, sulindac, cyanocobalamin/fa/pyridoxine, acetaminophen,alendronate sodium, prednisolone, morphine sulfate, lidocainehydrochloride, indomethacin, glucosamine sulf/chondroitin, amitriptylinehcl, sulfadiazine, oxycodone hcl/acetaminophen, olopatadine hcl,misoprostol, naproxen sodium, omeprazole, cyclophosphamide,rituximonoclonal antibody, IL-1 TRAP, MRA, CTLA4-IG, IL-18 BP,anti-IL-18, Anti-IL15, BIRB-796, SCIO-469, VX-702, AMG-548, VX-740,Roflumilast, IC-485, CDC-801, Mesopram, cyclosporine, cytokinesuppressive anti-inflammatory drug(s) (CSAIDs); CDP-571/BAY-10-3356(humanized anti-TNFα antibody; Celltech/Bayer); cA2/infliximonoclonalantibody (chimeric anti-TNFα antibody; Centocor); 75kdTNFR-IgG/etanercept (75 kD TNF receptor-IgG fusion protein; Immunex;see e.g., (1994) Arthr. Rheum. 37: 5295; (1996) J. Invest. Med. 44:235A); 55 kdTNF-IgG (55 kD TNF receptor-IgG fusion protein;Hoffmann-LaRoche); IDEC-CE9.1/SB 210396 (non-depleting primatizedanti-CD4 antibody; IDEC/SmithKline; see e.g., (1995) Arthr. Rheum. 38:S185); DAB 486-IL-2 and/or DAB 389-IL-2 (IL-2 fusion proteins; Seragen;see e.g., (1993) Arthrit. Rheum. 36: 1223); Anti-Tac (humanizedanti-IL-2Rα; Protein Design Labs/Roche); IL-4 (anti-inflammatorycytokine; DNAX/Schering); IL-10 (SCH 52000; recombinant IL-10,anti-inflammatory cytokine; DNAX/Schering); IL-4; IL-10 and/or IL-4agonists (e.g., agonist antibodies); IL-1RA (IL-1 receptor antagonist;Synergen/Amgen); anakinra (Kineret®/Amgen); TNF-bp/s-TNF (soluble TNFbinding protein; see e.g., (1996) Arthr. Rheum. 39(9 (supplement)):S284; (1995) Amer. J. Physiol.—Heart and Circ. Physiol. 268: 37-42);R973401 (phosphodiesterase Type IV inhibitor; see e.g., (1996) Arthr.Rheum. 39(9 (supplement): S282); MK-966 (COX-2 Inhibitor; see e.g.,(1996) Arthr. Rheum. 39(9 (supplement): S81); Iloprost (see e.g., (1996)Arthr. Rheum. 39(9 (supplement): S82); methotrexate; thalidomide (seee.g., (1996) Arthr. Rheum. 39(9 (supplement): S282) andthalidomide-related drugs (e.g., Celgen); leflunomide (anti-inflammatoryand cytokine inhibitor; see e.g., (1996) Arthr. Rheum. 39(9(supplement): S131; (1996) Inflamm. Res. 45: 103-107); tranexamic acid(inhibitor of plasminogen activation; see e.g., (1996) Arthr. Rheum.39(9 (supplement): S284); T-614 (cytokine inhibitor; see e.g., (1996)Arthr. Rheum. 39(9 (supplement): S282); prostaglandin E1 (see e.g.,(1996) Arthr. Rheum. 39(9 (supplement): S282); Tenidap (non-steroidalanti-inflammatory drug; see e.g., (1996) Arthr. Rheum. 39(9(supplement): S280); Naproxen (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug; seee.g., (1996) Neuro. Report 7: 1209-1213); Meloxicam (non-steroidalanti-inflammatory drug); Ibuprofen (non-steroidal anti-inflammatorydrug); Piroxicam (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug); Diclofenac(non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug); Indomethacin (non-steroidalanti-inflammatory drug); Sulfasalazine (see e.g., (1996) Arthr. Rheum.39(9 (supplement): S281); Azathioprine (see e.g., (1996) Arthr. Rheum.39(9 (supplement): S281); ICE inhibitor (inhibitor of the enzymeinterleukin-1β converting enzyme); zap-70 and/or lck inhibitor(inhibitor of the tyrosine kinase zap-70 or lck); VEGF inhibitor and/orVEGF-R inhibitor (inhibitors of vascular endothelial cell growth factoror vascular endothelial cell growth factor receptor; inhibitors ofangiogenesis); corticosteroid anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., SB203580);TNF-convertase inhibitors; anti-IL-12 antibodies; anti-IL-18 antibodies;interleukin-11 (see e.g., (1996) Arthr. Rheum. 39(9 (supplement): S296);interleukin-13 (see e.g., (1996) Arthr. Rheum. 39(9 (supplement): S308);interleukin -17 inhibitors (see e.g., (1996) Arthr. Rheum. 39(9(supplement): S120); gold; penicillamine; chloroquine; chlorambucil;hydroxychloroquine; cyclosporine; cyclophosphamide; total lymphoidirradiation; anti-thymocyte globulin; anti-CD4 antibodies; CD5-toxins;orally-administered peptides and collagen; lobenzarit disodium; CytokineRegulating Agents (CRAs) HP228 and HP466 (Houghten Pharmaceuticals,Inc.); ICAM-1 antisense phosphorothioate oligo-deoxynucleotides (ISIS2302; Isis Pharmaceuticals, Inc.); soluble complement receptor 1 (TP10;T Cell Sciences, Inc.); prednisone; orgotein; glycosaminoglycanpolysulphate; minocycline; anti-IL2R antibodies; marine and botanicallipids (fish and plant seed fatty acids; see e.g., DeLuca et al. (1995)Rheum. Dis. Clin. North Am. 21: 759-777); auranofin; phenylbutazone;meclofenamic acid; flufenamic acid; intravenous immune globulin;zileuton; azaribine; mycophenolic acid (RS-61443); tacrolimus (FK-506);sirolimus (rapamycin); amiprilose (therafectin); cladribine(2-chlorodeoxyadenosine); methotrexate; bcl-2 inhibitors (see Bruncko,M. et al. (2007) J. Med. Chem. 50(4): 641-662); antivirals andimmune-modulating agents, small molecule inhibitor of KDR, smallmolecule inhibitor of Tie-2; methotrexate; prednisone; celecoxib; folicacid; hydroxychloroquine sulfate; rofecoxib; etanercept;infliximonoclonal antibody; leflunomide; naproxen; valdecoxib;sulfasalazine; methylprednisolone; ibuprofen; meloxicam;methylprednisolone acetate; gold sodium thiomalate; aspirin;azathioprine; triamcinolone acetonide; propxyphene napsylate/apap;folate; nabumetone; diclofenac; piroxicam; etodolac; diclofenac sodium;oxaprozin; oxycodone hcl; hydrocodone bitartrate/apap; diclofenacsodium/misoprostol; fentanyl; anakinra, human recombinant; tramadol hcl;salsalate; sulindac; cyanocobalamin/fa/pyridoxine; acetaminophen;alendronate sodium; prednisolone; morphine sulfate; lidocainehydrochloride; indomethacin; glucosamine sulfate/chondroitin;cyclosporine; amitriptyline hcl; sulfadiazine; oxycodonehcl/acetaminophen; olopatadine hcl; misoprostol; naproxen sodium;omeprazole; mycophenolate mofetil; cyclophosphamide; rituximonoclonalantibody; IL-1 TRAP; MRA; CTLA4-IG; IL-18 BP; IL-12/23; anti-IL 18;anti-IL 15; BIRB-796; SC10-469; VX-702; AMG-548; VX-740; Roflumilast;IC-485; CDC-801; mesopram, albuterol, salmeterol/fluticasone,montelukast sodium, fluticasone propionate, budesonide, prednisone,salmeterol xinafoate, levalbuterol hcl, albuterol sulfate/ipratropium,prednisolone sodium phosphate, triamcinolone acetonide, beclomethasonedipropionate, ipratropium bromide, azithromycin, pirbuterol acetate,prednisolone, theophylline anhydrous, methylprednisolone sodiumsuccinate, clarithromycin, zafirlukast, formoterol fumarate, influenzavirus vaccine, methylprednisolone, amoxicillin trihydrate, flunisolide,allergy injection, cromolyn sodium, fexofenadine hydrochloride,flunisolide/menthol, amoxicillin/clavulanate, levofloxacin, inhalerassist device, guaifenesin, dexamethasone sodium phosphate, moxifloxacinhcl, doxycycline hyclate, guaifenesin/d-methorphan,p-ephedrine/cod/chlorphenir, gatifloxacin, cetirizine hydrochloride,mometasone furoate, salmeterol xinafoate, benzonatate, cephalexin,pe/hydrocodone/chlorphenir, cetirizine hcl/pseudoephed,phenylephrine/cod/promethazine, codeine/promethazine, cefprozil,dexamethasone, guaifenesin/pseudoephedrine,chlorpheniramine/hydrocodone, nedocromil sodium, terbutaline sulfate,epinephrine, methylprednisolone, metaproterenol sulfate, aspirin,nitroglycerin, metoprolol tartrate, enoxaparin sodium, heparin sodium,clopidogrel bisulfate, carvedilol, atenolol, morphine sulfate,metoprolol succinate, warfarin sodium, lisinopril, isosorbidemononitrate, digoxin, furosemide, simvastatin, ramipril, tenecteplase,enalapril maleate, torsemide, retavase, losartan potassium, quinaprilhcl/mag carb, bumetanide, alteplase, enalaprilat, amiodaronehydrochloride, tirofiban hcl m-hydrate, diltiazem hydrochloride,captopril, irbesartan, valsartan, propranolol hydrochloride, fosinoprilsodium, lidocaine hydrochloride, eptifibatide, cefazolin sodium,atropine sulfate, aminocaproic acid, spironolactone, interferon, sotalolhydrochloride, potassium chloride, docusate sodium, dobutamine hcl,alprazolam, pravastatin sodium, atorvastatin calcium, midazolamhydrochloride, meperidine hydrochloride, isosorbide dinitrate,epinephrine, dopamine hydrochloride, bivalirudin, rosuvastatin,ezetimibe/simvastatin, avasimibe, and cariporide.

The iRNA agent (and/or an anti-complement component C5 antibody) and anadditional therapeutic agent and/or treatment may be administered at thesame time and/or in the same combination, e.g., parenterally, or theadditional therapeutic agent can be administered as part of a separatecomposition or at separate times and/or by another method known in theart or described herein.

The present invention also provides methods of using an iRNA agent ofthe invention and/or a composition containing an iRNA agent of theinvention to reduce and/or inhibit complement component C5 expression ina cell. In other aspects, the present invention provides an iRNA of theinvention and/or a composition comprising an iRNA of the invention foruse in reducing and/or inhibiting C5 expression in a cell. In yet otheraspects, use of an iRNA of the invention and/or a composition comprisingan iRNA of the invention for the manufactuire of a medicament forreducing and/or inhibiting C5 expression in a cell are provided.

The methods and uses include contacting the cell with an iRNA, e.g., adsRNA, of the invention and maintaining the cell for a time sufficientto obtain degradation of the mRNA transcript of a C5 gene, therebyinhibiting expression of the C5 gene in the cell.

Reduction in gene expression can be assessed by any methods known in theart. For example, a reduction in the expression of C5 may be determinedby determining the mRNA expression level of C5 using methods routine toone of ordinary skill in the art, e.g., Northern blotting, qRT-PCR, bydetermining the protein level of C5 using methods routine to one ofordinary skill in the art, such as Western blotting, immunologicaltechniques, flow cytometry methods, ELISA, and/or by determining abiological activity of C5, such as CH₅₀ or AH₅₀ hemolysis assay, and/orby determining the biological activity of one or more moleculesassociated with the complement system, e.g., C5 products, such as C5aand C5b (or, in an in vivo setting, e.g., hemolysis).

In the methods and uses of the invention the cell may be contacted invitro or in vivo, i.e., the cell may be within a subject. In embodimentsof the invention in which the cell is within a subject, the methods mayinclude further contacting the cell with an anti-complement component C5antibody, e.g., eculizumab.

A cell suitable for treatment using the methods of the invention may beany cell that expresses a C5 gene. A cell suitable for use in themethods and uses of the invention may be a mammalian cell, e.g., aprimate cell (such as a human cell or a non-human primate cell, e.g., amonkey cell or a chimpanzee cell), a non-primate cell (such as a cowcell, a pig cell, a camel cell, a llama cell, a horse cell, a goat cell,a rabbit cell, a sheep cell, a hamster, a guinea pig cell, a cat cell, adog cell, a rat cell, a mouse cell, a lion cell, a tiger cell, a bearcell, or a buffalo cell), a bird cell (e.g., a duck cell or a goosecell), or a whale cell. In one embodiment, the cell is a human cell,e.g., a human liver cell.

C5 expression may be inhibited in the cell by at least about 5%, 6%, 7%,8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%,23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%,37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%,51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%,65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%,79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%,93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or about 100%.

The in vivo methods and uses of the invention may include administeringto a subject a composition containing an iRNA, where the iRNA includes anucleotide sequence that is complementary to at least a part of an RNAtranscript of the C5 gene of the mammal to be treated. When the organismto be treated is a mammal such as a human, the composition can beadministered by any means known in the art including, but not limited tosubcutaneous, intravenous, oral, intraperitoneal, or parenteral routes,including intracranial (e.g., intraventricular, intraparenchymal andintrathecal), intramuscular, transdermal, airway (aerosol), nasal,rectal, and topical (including buccal and sublingual) administration. Incertain embodiments, the compositions are administered by subcutaneousor intravenous infusion or injection.

In some embodiments, the administration is via a depot injection. Adepot injection may release the iRNA in a consistent way over aprolonged time period. Thus, a depot injection may reduce the frequencyof dosing needed to obtain a desired effect, e.g., a desired inhibitionof C5, or a therapeutic or prophylactic effect. A depot injection mayalso provide more consistent serum concentrations. Depot injections mayinclude subcutaneous injections or intramuscular injections. Inpreferred embodiments, the depot injection is a subcutaneous injection.

In some embodiments, the administration is via a pump. The pump may bean external pump or a surgically implanted pump. In certain embodiments,the pump is a subcutaneously implanted osmotic pump. In otherembodiments, the pump is an infusion pump. An infusion pump may be usedfor intravenous, subcutaneous, arterial, or epidural infusions. Inpreferred embodiments, the infusion pump is a subcutaneous infusionpump. In other embodiments, the pump is a surgically implanted pump thatdelivers the iRNA to the liver.

The mode of administration may be chosen based upon whether local orsystemic treatment is desired and based upon the area to be treated. Theroute and site of administration may be chosen to enhance targeting.

In one aspect, the present invention also provides methods forinhibiting the expression of a C5 gene in a mammal, e.g., a human. Thepresent invention also provides a composition comprising an iRNA, e.g.,a dsRNA, that targets a C5 gene in a cell of a mammal for use ininhibiting expression of the C5 gene in the mammal. In another aspect,the present invention provides use of an iRNA, e.g., a dsRNA, thattargets a C5 gene in a cell of a mammal in the manufacture of amedicament for inhibiting expression of the C5 gene in the mammal.

The methods and uses include administering to the mammal, e.g., a human,a composition comprising an iRNA, e.g., a dsRNA, that targets a C5 genein a cell of the mammal and maintaining the mammal for a time sufficientto obtain degradation of the mRNA transcript of the C5 gene, therebyinhibiting expression of the C5 gene in the mammal. In some embodiment,the methods further comprise administering an anti-complement componentC5 antibody, e.g., eculizumab, to the subject.

Reduction in gene expression can be assessed by any methods known it theart and by methods, e.g. qRT-PCR, described herein. Reduction in proteinproduction can be assessed by any methods known it the art and bymethods, e.g., ELISA or Western blotting, described herein. In oneembodiment, a puncture liver biopsy sample serves as the tissue materialfor monitoring the reduction in C5 gene and/or protein expression. Inanother embodiment, a blood sample serves as the tissue material formonitoring the reduction in C5 gene and/or protein expression. In otherembodiments, inhibition of the expression of a C5 gene is monitoredindirectly by, for example, determining the expression and/or activityof a gene in a C5 pathway, including, for example, C5a, C5b, and solubleC5b-9 (see, e.g., FIG. 1). For example, the activity of CD59 may bemonitored to determine the inhibition of expression of a C5 gene. CH₅₀,AH₅₀, clot formation and/or serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), in asample, e.g., a blood or liver sample, may also be measured. Suitableassays are further described in the Examples section below.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materialssimilar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in thepractice or testing of the iRNAs and methods featured in the invention,suitable methods and materials are described below. All publications,patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein areincorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, thepresent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition,the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and notintended to be limiting.

EXAMPLES Example 1 iRNA Synthesis Source of Reagents

Where the source of a reagent is not specifically given herein, suchreagent can be obtained from any supplier of reagents for molecularbiology at a quality/purity standard for application in molecularbiology.

Transcripts

siRNA design was carried out to identify siRNAs targeting human, rhesus(Macaca mulatta), mouse, and rat C5 transcripts annotated in the NCBIGene database (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/). Design used thefollowing transcripts from the NCBI RefSeq collection:Human—NM_001735.2; Rhesus—XM_001095750.2; Mouse—NM_010406.2;Rat—XM_345342.4. SiRNA duplexes were designed in several separatebatches, including but not limited to batches containing duplexesmatching human and rhesus transcripts only; human, rhesus, and mousetranscripts only; human, rhesus, mouse, and rat transcripts only; andmouse and rat transcripts only. All siRNA duplexes were designed thatshared 100% identity with the listed human transcript and other speciestranscripts considered in each design batch (above).

siRNA Design, Specificity, and Efficacy Prediction

The predicted specificity of all possible 19mers was predicted from eachsequence. Candidate 19mers were then selected that lacked repeats longerthan 7 nucleotides. These 2971 candidate human/rhesus, 142human/rhesus/mouse, 54 human/rhesus/mouse/rat, and 807 mouse/rat siRNAswere used in comprehensive searches against the appropriatetranscriptomes (defined as the set of NM_ and XM_ records within thehuman, rhesus, dog, mouse, or rat NCBI Refseq sets) using an exhaustive“brute-force” algorithm implemented in the python script‘BruteForce.py’. The script next parsed the transcript-oligo alignmentsto generate a score based on the position and number of mismatchesbetween the siRNA and any potential ‘off-target’ transcript. Theoff-target score is weighted to emphasize differences in the ‘seed’region of siRNAs, in positions 2-9 from the 5′-end of the molecule.

Each oligo-transcript pair from the brute-force search was given amismatch score by summing the individual mismatch scores; mismatches inthe position 2-9 were counted as 2.8, mismatches in the cleavage sitepositions 10-11 were counted as 1.2, and mismatches in region 12-19counted as 1.0. An additional off-target prediction was carried out bycomparing the frequency of heptamers and octomers derived from 3distinct, seed-derived hexamers of each oligo. The hexamers frompositions 2-7 relative to the 5′ start were used to create 2 heptamersand one octamer. ‘Heptamer1’ was created by adding a 3′-A to thehexamer; heptamer2 was created by adding a 5′-A to the hexamer; theoctomer was created by adding an A to both 5′- and 3′-ends of thehexamer. The frequency of octamers and heptamers in the human, rhesus,mouse, or rat 3′-UTRome (defined as the subsequence of the transcriptomefrom NCBI's Refseq database where the end of the coding region, the‘CDS’, is clearly defined) was pre-calculated. The octamer frequency wasnormalized to the heptamer frequency using the median value from therange of octamer frequencies. A ‘mirSeedScore’ was then calculated bycalculating the sum of ((3× normalized octamer count)+(2× heptamer2count)+(1× heptamer1 count)).

Both siRNAs strands were assigned to a category of specificity accordingto the calculated scores: a score above 3 qualifies as highly specific,equal to 3 as specific and between 2.2 and 2.8 as moderately specific.The duplexes were sorted by the specificity of the antisense strand andthose duplexes whose antisense oligos lacked GC at the first position,lacked G at both positions 13 and 14, and had 3 or more Us or As in theseed region were selected.

For GalNaC-conjugated duplexes, sense 21mer and antisense 23mer oligoswere designed by extending antisense 19mers (described above) to 23nucleotides of target-complementary sequence. All species transcriptsincluded in the design batch were checked for complementarity. Only23mers that preserved 100% sequence complementarity in at least 2species were used. For each duplex, the sense 21mer was specified as thereverse complement of the first 21 nucleotides of the antisense strand.

siRNA Sequence Selection

A total of 23 sense and 23 antisense derived human/rhesus, 6 sense and 6antisense human/rhesus/mouse, 6 sense and 6 antisense derivedhuman/rhesus/mouse/mouse/rat, and 13 sense and 13 antisense derivedmouse/rat siRNA 19mer oligos were synthesized and formed into duplexes.

The above 19mer sets were extended to 21/23mer duplexes for GalNacconjugate design and re-classified according to their new speciesmatches. Twenty-seven sense and 27 antisense derived human/rhesus, 1sense and 1 sense derived human/rhesus/mouse, 3 sense and 3 antisensederived human/rhesus/rat, 4 sense and 4 antisense derivedhuman/rhesus/mouse/rat, and 13 sense and 13 antisense derived mouse/rat21mer (sense) and 23mer (antisense) oligos were synthesized and formedinto duplexes.

A detailed list of C5 sense and antisense strand sequences is shown inTables 3-6.

siRNA Synthesis

General Small and Medium Scale RNA Synthesis Procedure

RNA oligonucleotides were synthesized at scales between 0.2-500 μmolusing commercially available5′-O-(4,4′-dimethoxytrityl)-2′-O-t-butyldimethylsilyl-3′-O-(2-cyanoethyl-N,N-diisopropyl)phosphoramiditemonomers of uridine, 4-N-acetylcytidine, 6-N-benzoyladenosine and2-N-isobutyrylguanosine and the corresponding 2′-O-methyl and 2′-fluorophosphoramidites according to standard solid phase oligonucleotidesynthesis protocols. The amidite solutions were prepared at 0.1-0.15 Mconcentration and 5-ethylthio-1H-tetrazole (0.25-0.6 M in acetonitrile)was used as the activator. Phosphorothioate backbone modifications wereintroduced during synthesis using 0.2 M phenylacetyl disulfide (PADS) inlutidine:acetonitrile (1:1) (v;v) or 0.1 M 3-(dimethylaminomethylene)amino-3H-1,2,4-dithiazole-5-thione (DDTT) in pyridine for the oxidationstep. After completion of synthesis, the sequences were cleaved from thesolid support and deprotected using methylamine followed bytriethylamine.3HF to remove any 2′-O-t-butyldimethylsilyl protectinggroups present.

For synthesis scales between 5-500 μmol and fully 2′ modified sequences(2′-fluoro and/or 2′-O-methyl or combinations thereof) theoligonucleotides where deprotected using 3:1 (v/v) ethanol andconcentrated (28-32%) aqueous ammonia either at 35° C. 16 h or 55° C.for 5.5 h. Prior to ammonia deprotection the oligonucleotides wheretreated with 0.5 M piperidine in acetonitrile for 20 min on the solidsupport. The crude oligonucleotides were analyzed by LC-MS andanion-exchange HPLC (IEX-HPLC). Purification of the oligonucleotides wascarried out by IEX HPLC using: 20 mM phosphate, 10%-15% ACN, pH=8.5(buffer A) and 20 mM phosphate, 10%-15% ACN, 1 M NaBr, pH=8.5 (bufferB). Fractions were analyzed for purity by analytical HPLC. Theproduct-containing fractions with suitable purity were pooled andconcentrated on a rotary evaporator prior to desalting. The samples weredesalted by size exclusion chromatography and lyophilized to dryness.Equal molar amounts of sense and antisense strands were annealed in lxPBS buffer to prepare the corresponding siRNA duplexes.

For small scales (0.2-1 μmol), synthesis was performed on a MerMade 192synthesizer in a 96 well format. In case of fully 2′-modified sequences(2′-fluoro and/or 2′-O-methyl or combinations thereof) theoligonucleotides where deprotected using methylamine at room temperaturefor 30-60 min followed by incubation at 60° C. for 30 min or using 3:1(v/v) ethanol and concentrated (28-32%) aqueous ammonia at roomtemperature for 30-60 min followed by incubation at 40° C. for 1.5hours. The crude oligonucleotides were then precipitated in a solutionof acetonitrile:acetone (9:1) and isolated by centrifugation anddecanting the supernatant. The crude oligonucleotide pellet wasre-suspended in 20 mM NaOAc buffer and analyzed by LC-MS and anionexchange HPLC. The crude oligonucleotide sequences were desalted in 96deep well plates on a 5 mL HiTrap Sephadex G25 column (GE Healthcare).In each well about 1.5 mL samples corresponding to an individualsequence was collected. These purified desalted oligonucleotides wereanalyzed by LC-MS and anion exchange chromatography. Duplexes wereprepared by annealing equimolar amounts of sense and antisense sequenceson a Tecan robot. Concentration of duplexes was adjusted to 10 μM in 1×PBS buffer.

Synthesis of GalNAc-Conjugated Oligonucleotides for In Vivo Analysis

Oligonucleotides conjugated with GalNAc ligand at their 3′-terminus weresynthesized at scales between 0.2-500 μmol using a solid supportpre-loaded with a Y-shaped linker bearing a 4,4′-dimethoxytrityl(DMT)-protected primary hydroxy group for oligonucleotide synthesis anda GalNAc ligand attached through a tether.

For synthesis of GalNAc conjugates in the scales between 5-500 μmol, theabove synthesis protocol for RNA was followed with the followingadaptions: For polystyrene-based synthesis supports 5% dichloroaceticacid in toluene was used for DMT-cleavage during synthesis. Cleavagefrom the support and deprotection was performed as described above.Phosphorothioate-rich sequences (usually >5 phorphorothioates) weresynthesized without removing the final 5′-DMT group (“DMT-on”) and,after cleavage and deprotection as described above, purified by reversephase HPLC using 50 mM ammonium acetate in water (buffer A) and 50 mMammoniumacetate in 80% acetonitirile (buffer B). Fractions were analyzedfor purity by analytical HPLC and/or LC-MS. The product-containingfractions with suitable purity were pooled and concentrated on a rotaryevaporator. The DMT-group was removed using 20%-25% acetic acid in wateruntil completion. The samples were desalted by size exclusionchromatography and lyophilized to dryness. Equal molar amounts of senseand antisense strands were annealed in 1× PBS buffer to prepare thecorresponding siRNA duplexes.

For small scale synthesis of GalNAc conjugates (0.2-1 μmol), includingsequences with multiple phosphorothioate linkages, the protocolsdescribed above for synthesis of RNA or fully 2′-F/2′-OMe-containingsequences on MerMade platform were applied. Synthesis was performed onpre-packed columns containing GalNAc-functionalized controlled poreglass support.

Example 2 In Vitro Screening Cell Culture and Transfections

Hep3B cells (ATCC, Manassas, Va.) were grown to near confluence at 37°C. in an atmosphere of 5% CO2 in Eagle's Minimum Essential Medium (ATCC)supplemented with 10% FBS, streptomycin, and glutamine (ATCC) beforebeing released from the plate by trypsinization. Cells were washed andre-suspended at 0.25×10⁶ cells/ml. During transfections, cells wereplated onto a 96-well plate with about 20,000 cells per well.

Primary mouse hepatocytes (PMH) were freshly isolated from a C57BL/6female mouse (Charles River Labortories International, Inc. Willmington,Mass.) less than 1 hour prior to transfections and grown in primaryhepatocyte media. Cells were resuspended at 0.11×10⁶ cells/ml inInVitroGRO CP Rat (plating) medium (Celsis In Vitro Technologies,catalog number S01494). During transfections, cells were plated onto aBD BioCoat 96 well collagen plate (BD, 356407) at 10,000 cells per welland incubated at 37° C. in an atmosphere of 5% CO₂.

Cryopreserved Primary Cynomolgus Hepatocytes (Celsis In VitroTechnologies, M003055-P) were thawed at 37° C. water bath immediatelyprior to usage and re-suspended at 0.26×10⁶ cells/ml in InVitroGRO CP(plating) medium (Celsis In Vitro Technologies, catalog number Z99029).During transfections, cells were plated onto a BD BioCoat 96 wellcollagen plate (BD, 356407) at 25,000 cells per well and incubated at37° C. in an atmosphere of 5% CO₂.

For Hep3B, PMH, and primary Cynomolgus hepatocytes, transfection wascarried out by adding 14.8 μl of Opti-MEM plus 0.2 μl of LipofectamineRNAiMax per well (Invitrogen, Carlsbad Calif. catalog number13778-150)to 5 μl of each siRNA duplex to an individual well in a 96-well plate.The mixture was then incubated at room temperature for 20 minutes.Eighty μl of complete growth media without antibiotic containing theappropriate cell number were then added to the siRNA mixture. Cells wereincubated for 24 hours prior to RNA purification.

Single dose experiments were performed at 10 nM and 0.1 nM final duplexconcentration for GalNAc modified sequences or at 1 nM and 0.01 nM finalduplex concentration for all other sequences. Dose response experimentswere done at 3, 1, 0.3, 0.1, 0.037, 0.0123, 0.00412, and 0.00137 nMfinal duplex concentration for primary mouse hepatocytes and at 3, 1,0.3, 0.1, 0.037, 0.0123, 0.00412, 0.00137, 0.00046, 0.00015, 0.00005,and 0.000017 nM final duplex concentration for Hep3B cells.

Free Uptake Transfection

Free uptake experiments were performed by adding 10 μl of siRNA duplexesin PBS per well into a 96 well plate. Ninety μl of complete growth mediacontaining appropriate cell number for the cell type was then added tothe siRNA. Cells were incubated for 24 hours prior to RNA purification.Single dose experiments were performed at 500 nM and 5 nM final duplexconcentration and dose response experiments were done at 1000, 333, 111,37, 12.3, 4.12, 1.37, 0.46 nM final duplex concentration.

Total RNA Isolation Using DYNABEADS mRNA Isolation Kit (Invitrogen, Part#: 610-12)

Cells were harvested and lysed in 150 μl of Lysis/Binding Buffer thenmixed for 5 minutes at 850 rpm using an Eppendorf Thermomixer (themixing speed was the same throughout the process). Ten microliters ofmagnetic beads and 80 μl Lysis/Binding Buffer mixture were added to around bottom plate and mixed for 1 minute. Magnetic beads were capturedusing a magnetic stand and the supernatant was removed withoutdisturbing the beads. After removing the supernatant, the lysed cellswere added to the remaining beads and mixed for 5 minutes. Afterremoving the supernatant, magnetic beads were washed 2 times with 150 μlWash Buffer A and mixed for 1 minute. The beads were capturedagain andthe supernatant was removed. The beads were then washed with 150 μl WashBuffer B, captured and the supernatant was removed. The beads were nextwashed with 150 μl Elution Buffer, captured and the supernatant removed.Finally, the beads were allowed to dry for 2 minutes. After drying, 50μl of Elution Buffer was added and mixed for 5 minutes at 70° C. Thebeads were captured on magnet for 5 minutes. Forty-five μl ofsupernatant was removed and added to another 96 well plate.

cDNA Synthesis Using ABI High Capacity cDNA Reverse Transcription Kit(Applied Biosystems, Foster City, Calif., Cat #4368813)

A master mix of 2 μl 10× Buffer, 0.8 μl 25× dNTPs, 2 μl Random primers,1 μl Reverse Transcriptase, 1 μl RNase inhibitor and 3.2 μl of H2O perreaction as prepared. Equal volumes master mix and RNA were mixed for afinal volume of 12 μl for in vitro screened or 20 μl for in vivoscreened samples. cDNA was generated using a Bio-Rad C-1000 or S-1000thermal cycler (Hercules, Calif.) through the following steps: 25° C.for 10 minutes, 37° C. for 120 minutes, 85° C. for 5 seconds, and 4° C.hold.

Real Time PCR

Two μl of cDNA were added to a master mix containing 2 μl of H₂O, 0.5 μlGAPDH TaqMan Probe (Life Technologies catalog number 4326317E for Hep3Bcells, catalog number 352339E for primary mouse hepatocytes or customprobe for cynomolgus primary hepatocytes), 0.5 μl C5 TaqMan probe (LifeTechnologies c catalog number Hs00156197_m1 for Hep3B cells ormm00439275_m1 for Primary Mouse Hepatoctyes or custom probe forcynomolgus primary hepatocytes) and 5 μl Lightcycler 480 probe mastermix (Roche catalog number 04887301001) per well in a 384 well plates(Roche catalog number 04887301001). Real time PCR was performed in anRoche LC480 Real Time PCR system (Roche) using the ΔΔCt(RQ) assay. Forin vitro screening, each duplex was tested with two biologicalreplicates unless otherwise noted and each Real Time PCR was performedin duplicate technical replicates. For in vivo screening, each duplexwas tested in one or more experiments (3 mice per group) and each RealTime PCR was run in duplicate technical replicates.

To calculate relative fold change in C5 mRNA levels, real time data wereanalyzed using the ΔΔCt method and normalized to assays performed withcells transfected with 10 nM AD-1955, or mock transfected cells. IC₅₀swere calculated using a 4 parameter fit model using XLFit and normalizedto cells transfected with AD-1955 over the same dose range, or to itsown lowest dose.

The sense and antisense sequences of AD-1955 are:

SENSE: (SEQ ID NO: 13) cuuAcGcuGAGuAcuucGAdTsdT; ANTISENSE:(SEQ ID NO: 14) UCGAAGuACUcAGCGuAAGdTsdT.

Table 7 shows the results of a single dose screen in Hep3B cellstransfected with the indicated GalNAC conjugated modified iRNAs. Dataare expressed as percent of message remaining relative to untreatedcells.

Table 8 shows the results of a single dose transfection screen inprimary mouse hepatocytes transfected with the indicated GalNACconjugated modified iRNAs. Data are expressed as percent of messageremaining relative to untreated cells.

Table 9 shows the results of a single dose free uptake screen in primaryCynomolgus hepatocytes with the indicated GalNAC conjugated modifiediRNAs. Data are expressed as percent of message remaining relative tountreated cells.

Table 10 shows the results of a single dose free uptake screen inprimary mouse hepatocytes with the indicated GalNAC conjugated modifiediRNAs. Data are expressed as percent of message remaining relative tountreated cells.

Table 11 shows the dose response of a free uptake screen in primaryCynomolgus hepatocytes with the indicated GalNAC conjugated modifiediRNAs. The indicated IC₅₀ values represent the IC₅₀ values relative tountreated cells.

Table 12 shows the dose response of a free uptake screen in primarymouse hepatocytes with the indicated GalNAC conjugated modified iRNAs.The indicated IC₅₀ values represent the IC₅₀ values relative tountreated cells.

Table 13 shows the results of a single dose screen in Hep3B cellstransfected with the indicated modified and unmodified iRNAs. Data areexpressed as percent of message remaining relative to untreated cells.The 0.01 nM dose was a single biological transfection and the 1 nM dosewas a duplicate biological transfection.

Table 14 shows the results of a single dose screen in primary mousehepatocytes transfected with the indicated modified and unmodifiediRNAs. Data are expressed as percent of message remaining relative tountreated cells.

Table 15 shows the dose response in Hep3B cells transfected with theindicated modified and unmodified iRNAs. The indicated IC₅₀ valuesrepresent the IC₅₀ values relative to untreated cells.

Table 16 shows the dose response in primary mouse hepatocytestransfected with the indicated modified and unmodified iRNAs. Theindicated IC₅₀ values represent the IC₅₀ values relative to untreatedcells.

TABLE 2 Abbreviations of nucleotide monomers used in nucleic acidsequence representation. It will be understood that these monomers, whenpresent in an oligonucleotide, are mutually linked by5′-3′-phosphodiester bonds. Abbreviation Nucleotide(s) AAdenosine-3′-phosphate Af 2′-fluoroadenosine-3′-phosphate Afs2′-fluoroadenosine-3′-phosphorothioate As adenosine-3′-phosphorothioateC cytidine-3′-phosphate Cf 2′-fluorocytidine-3′-phosphate Cfs2′-fluorocytidine-3′-phosphorothioate Cs cytidine-3′-phosphorothioate Gguanosine-3′-phosphate Gf 2′-fluoroguanosine-3′-phosphate Gfs2′-fluoroguanosine-3′-phosphorothioate Gs guanosine-3′-phosphorothioateT 5′-methyluridine-3′-phosphate Tf2′-fluoro-5-methyluridine-3′-phosphate Tfs2′-fluoro-5-methyluridine-3′-phosphorothioate Ts5-methyluridine-3′-phosphorothioate U Uridine-3′-phosphate Uf2′-fluorouridine-3′-phosphate Ufs 2′-fluorouridine-3′-phosphorothioateUs uridine-3′-phosphorothioate N any nucleotide (G, A, C, T or U) a2′-O-methyladenosine-3′-phosphate as2′-O-methyladenosine-3′-phosphorothioate c2′-O-methylcytidine-3′-phosphate cs2′-O-methylcytidine-3′-phosphorothioate g2′-O-methylguanosine-3′-phosphate gs2′-O-methylguanosine-3′-phosphorothioate t2′-O-methyl-5-methyluridine-3′-phosphate ts2′-O-methyl-5-methyluridine-3′-phosphorothioate u2′-O-methyluridine-3′-phosphate us2′-O-methyluridine-3′-phosphorothioate s phosphorothioate linkage L96N-[tris(GalNAc-alkyl)-amidodecanoyl)]-4-hydroxyprolinolHyp-(GalNAc-alkyl)3 (dt) deoxy-thymine

TABLE 3 Unmodified Sense and Antisense Strand Sequences of C5 dsRNAsSEQ ID SEQ ID Duplex ID Sense strand Sense Unmodified Sequence NO:Antisense Antisense Unmodified Sequence NO: Species_Oligo name¹AD-58093.1² UM³ A-118310.1 AAUAACUCACUAUAAUUACUU 15 A-118311.1AAGUAAUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUU 66 NM_001735.2_1517-1539_as AD-58099.1 UMA-118312.1 UGACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAA 16 A-118313.1 UUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAAU67 NM_001735.2_1511-1533_as AD-58105.1 UM A-118314.1CUUCCUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUU 17 A-118315.1 AAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAGGAAGCA 68NM_001735.2_2733-2755_as AD-58111.1 UM A-118316.1 GACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAAU18 A-118317.1 AUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAA 69 NM_001735.2_1512-1534_asAD-58117.1 UM A-118318.1 UCCUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUUCA 19 A-118319.1UGAAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAGGAAG 70 NM_001735.2_2735-2757_as AD-58123.1 UMA-118320.1 AAGCAAGAUAUUUUUAUAAUA 20 A-118321.1 UAUUAUAAAAAUAUCUUGCUUUU71 NM_001735.2_784-806_as AD-58129.1 UM A-118322.1 AAAAUGUUUUUGUCAAGUACA21 A-118323.1 UGUACUUGACAAAAACAUUUUCU 72 NM_001735.2_4744-4766_asAD-58088.1 UM A-118324.1 AUUUAAACAACAAGUACCUUU 22 A-118325.1AAAGGUACUUGUUGUUUAAAUCU 73 NM_001735.2_982-1004_as AD-58094.1 UMA-118326.1 AUUCAGAAAGUCUGUGAAGGA 23 A-118327.1 UCCUUCACAGACUUUCUGAAUUU74 NM_001735.2_4578-4600_as AD-58100.1 UM A-118328.1ACACUGAAGCAUUUGAUGCAA 24 A-118329.1 UUGCAUCAAAUGCUUCAGUGUAU 75NM_001735.2_169-191_as AD-58106.1 UM A-118330.1 GCAGUUCUGUGUUAAAAUGUC 25A-118331.1 GACAUUUUAACACAGAACUGCAU 76 NM_001735.2_2591-2613_asAD-58112.1 UM A-118332.1 AGGAUUUUGAGUGUAAAAGGA 26 A-118333.1UCCUUUUACACUCAAAAUCCUUU 77 NM_001735.2_2955-2977_as AD-58118.1 UMA-118334.1 AAUGAUGAACCUUGUAAAGAA 27 A-118335.1 UUCUUUACAAGGUUCAUCAUUUU78 NM_001735.2_2025-2047_as AD-58124.1 UM A-118336.1AUCAUUGGAACAUUUUUCAUU 28 A-118337.1 AAUGAAAAAUGUUCCAAUGAUUU 79NM_001735.2_3118-3140_as AD-58130.1 UM A-118338.1 AGCCAGAAAUUCGGAGUUAUU29 A-118339.1 AAUAACUCCGAAUUUCUGGCUUG 80 NM_001735.2_2317-2339_asAD-58089.1 UM A-118340.1 UCCCUGGGAGAUAAAACUCAC 30 A-118341.1GUGAGUUUUAUCUCCCAGGGAAA 81 NM_001735.2_3618-3640_as AD-58095.1 UMA-118342.1 GAAAAUGAUGAACCUUGUAAA 31 A-118343.1 UUUACAAGGUUCAUCAUUUUCUU82 NM_001735.2_2022-2044_as AD-58101.1 UM A-118344.1AUUGCUCAAGUCACAUUUGAU 32 A-118345.1 AUCAAAUGUGACUUGAGCAAUUC 83NM_001735.2_918-940_as AD-58107.1 UM A-118346.1 GAGAUUGCAUAUGCUUAUAAA 33A-118347.1 UUUAUAAGCAUAUGCAAUCUCUG 84 NM_001735.2_4698-4720_asAD-58113.1 UM A-118348.1 GUUAUCCUGAUAAAAAAUUUA 34 A-118349.1UAAAUUUUUUAUCAGGAUAACUU 85 NM_001735.2_205-227_as AD-58119.1 UMA-118350.1 AGGAAGUUUGCAGCUUUUAUU 35 A-118351.1 AAUAAAAGCUGCAAACUUCCUCA86 NM_001735.2_4147-4169_as AD-58125.1 UM A-118352.1GAAGAAAUUGAUCAUAUUGGA 36 A-118353.1 UCCAAUAUGAUCAAUUUCUUCUA 87NM_001735.2_555-577_as AD-58131.1 UM A-118354.1 AUCCUGAUAAAAAAUUUAGUU 37A-118355.1 AACUAAAUUUUUUAUCAGGAUAA 88 NM_001735.2_208-230_asAD-58090.1 UM A-118356.1 UGGAAAAGAAAUCUUAGUAAA 38 A-118357.1UUUACUAAGAUUUCUUUUCCAAA 89 NM_001735.2_2786-2808_as AD-58096.1 UMA-118358.1 UCUUAUCAAAGUAUAAACAUU 39 A-118359.1 AAUGUUUAUACUUUGAUAAGAUG90 NM_001735.2_1596-1618_as AD-58102.1 UM A-118360.1UCCCUACAAACUGAAUUUGGU 40 A-118361.1 ACCAAAUUCAGUUUGUAGGGAGA 91NM_001735.2_1082-1104_as AD-58108.1 UM A-118362.1 CAGGAGCAAACAUAUGUCAUU41 A-118363.1 AAUGACAUAUGUUUGCUCCUGUC 92 NM_001735.2_87-109_asAD-58114.1 UM A-118364.1 ACAUGUAACAACUGUAGUUCA 42 A-118365.1UGAACUACAGUUGUUACAUGUAC 93 NM_001735.2_4109-4131_as AD-58120.1 UMA-118366.1 CAGGAAAUCAUUGGAACAUUU 43 A-118367.1 AAAUGUUCCAAUGAUUUCCUGUU94 NM_001735.2_3112-3134_as AD-58126.1 UM A-118368.1UUUAAGAAUUUUGAAAUUACU 44 A-118369.1 AGUAAUUUCAAAAUUCUUAAAGU 95NM_001735.2_759-781_as AD-58132.1 UM A-118370.1 UAUUCUGCAACUGAAUUCGAU 45A-118371.1 AUCGAAUUCAGUUGCAGAAUAAC 96 NM_001735.2_4412-4434_asAD-58091.1 UM A-118372.1 GCCCUUGGAAAGAGUAUUUCA 46 A-118373.1UGAAAUACUCUUUCCAAGGGCUU 97 NM_001735.2_1886-1908_as AD-58097.1 UMA-118374.1 CCUGAUAAAAAAUUUAGUUAC 47 A-118375.1 GUAACUAAAUUUUUUAUCAGGAU98 NM_001735.2_210-232_as AD-58103.1 UM A-118376.1 CCCUUGGAAAGAGUAUUUCAA48 A-118377.1 UUGAAAUACUCUUUCCAAGGGCU 99 NM_001735.2_1887-1909_asAD-58121.1 UM A-118382.1 UGCAGAUCAAACACAAUUUCA 49 A-118383.1UGAAAUUGUGUUUGAUCUGCAGA 100 NM_010406.2_4943-4965_as AD-58133.1 UMA-118386.1 CAGAUCAAACACAAUUUCAGU 50 A-118387.1 ACUGAAAUUGUGUUUGAUCUGCA101 NM_010406.2_4945-4967_as AD-58116.1 UM A-118396.1GUUCCGGAUAUUUGAACUUUU 51 A-118397.1 AAAAGUUCAAAUAUCCGGAACCG 102NM_010406.2_4500-4522_as AD-58644.1 UM A-119328.1 AUUUAAACAACAAGUACCUUU52 A-119329.1 AAAGGUACUUGUUGUUUAAAUCU 103 NM_001735.2_982-1004_asAD-58651.1 UM A-119328.2 AUUUAAACAACAAGUACCUUU 53 A-119339.1AAAGGUACUUGUUGUUUAAAUCU 104 NM_001735.2_982-1004_as AD-58641.1 UMA-119322.1 UGACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAA 54 A-119323.1 UUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAAU105 NM_001735.2_1511-1533_as AD-58648.1 UM A-119322.2UGACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAA 55 A-119336.1 UUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAAU 106NM_001735.2_1511-1533_as AD-58642.1 UM A-119324.1 GACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAAU56 A-119325.1 AUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAA 107 NM_001735.2_1512-1534_asAD-58649.1 UM A-119324.2 GACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAAU 57 A-119337.1AUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAA 108 NM_001735.2_1512-1534_as AD-58647.1 UMA-119334.1 GUUCCGGAUAUUUGAACUUUU 58 A-119335.1 AAAAGUUCAAAUAUCCGGAACCG109 NM_010406.2_4500-4522_as AD-58654.1 UM A-119334.2GUUCCGGAUAUUUGAACUUUU 59 A-119342.1 AAAAGUUCAAAUAUCCGGAACCG 110NM_010406.2_4500-4522_as AD-58645.1 UM A-119330.1 UGCAGAUCAAACACAAUUUCA60 A-119331.1 UGAAAUUGUGUUUGAUCUGCAGA 111 NM_010406.2_4943-4965_asAD-58652.1 UM A-119330.2 UGCAGAUCAAACACAAUUUCA 61 A-119340.1UGAAAUUGUGUUUGAUCUGCAGA 112 NM_010406.2_4943-4965_as AD-58643.1 UMA-119326.1 AAGCAAGAUAUUUUUAUAAUA 62 A-119327.1 UAUUAUAAAAAUAUCUUGCUUUU113 NM_001735.2_784-806_as AD-58650.1 UM A-119326.2AAGCAAGAUAUUUUUAUAAUA 63 A-119338.1 UAUUAUAAAAAUAUCUUGCUUUU 114NM_001735.2_784-806_as AD-58646.1 UM A-119332.1 CAGAUCAAACACAAUUUCAGU 64A-119333.1 ACUGAAAUUGUGUUUGAUCUGCA 115 NM_010406.2_4945-4967_asAD-58653.1 UM A-119332.2 CAGAUCAAACACAAUUUCAGU 65 A-119341.1ACUGAAAUUGUGUUUGAUCUGCA 116 NM_010406.2_4945-4967_as ¹The Species Oligoname reflects the GenBank record (e.g., NM_001735.2) and the position inthe nucleotide sequence of the GenBank record (e.g., 1517-1539) that theantisense strand targets. ²The number following the decimal point refersto the lot number. ³UM = unmodified

TABLE 4GalNAC Conujugated Modified Sense and Antisense Strand Sequences of C5 dsRNAsSEQ SEQ ID ID Species_Oligo Duplex ID Sense strand Sense sequence NO:Antisense Antisense sequence NO: name⁴ AD-58093.1 A-118310.1AfaUfaAfcUfcAfCfUfaUfaAfuUfaCfuUfL96 117 A-118311.1aAfgUfaAfuUfaUfaguGfaGfuUfaUfusUfsu 168 AD-58099.1 A-118312.1UfgAfcAfaAfaUfAfAfcUfcAfcUfaUfaAfL96 118 A-118313.1uUfaUfaGfuGfaGfuuaUfuUfuGfuCfasAfsu 169 AD-58105.1 A-118314.1CfuUfcCfuCfuGfGfAfaAfuUfgGfcCfuUfL96 119 A-118315.1aAfgGfcCfaAfuUfuccAfgAfgGfaAfgsCfsa 170 AD-58111.1 A-118316.1GfaCfaAfaAfuAfAfCfuCfaCfuAfuAfaUfL96 120 A-118317.1aUfuAfuAfgUfgAfguuAfuUfuUfgUfcsAfsa 171 AD-58117.1 A-118318.1UfcCfuCfuGfgAfAfAfuUfgGfcCfuUfcAfL96 121 A-118319.1uGfaAfgGfcCfaAfuuuCfcAfgAfgGfasAfsg 172 AD-58123.1 A-118320.1AfaGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuUfaUfaAfuAfL96 122 A-118321.1uAfuUfaUfaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcUfusUfsu 173 AD-58129.1 A-118322.1AfaAfaUfgUfuUfUfUfgUfcAfaGfuAfcAfL96 123 A-118323.1uGfuAfcUfuGfaCfaaaAfaCfaUfuUfusCfsu 174 AD-58088.1 A-118324.1AfuUfuAfaAfcAfAfCfaAfgUfaCfcUfuUfL96 124 A-118325.1aAfaGfgUfaCfuUfguuGfuUfuAfaAfusCfsu 175 AD-58094.1 A-118326.1AfuUfcAfgAfaAfGfUfcUfgUfgAfaGfgAfL96 125 A-118327.1uCfcUfuCfaCfaGfacuUfuCfuGfaAfusUfsu 176 AD-58100.1 A-118328.1AfcAfcUfgAfaGfCfAfuUfuGfaUfgCfaAfL96 126 A-118329.1uUfgCfaUfcAfaAfugcUfuCfaGfuGfusAfsu 177 AD-58106.1 A-118330.1GfcAfgUfuCfuGfUfGfuUfaAfaAfuGfuCfL96 127 A-118331.1gAfcAfuUfuUfaAfcacAfgAfaCfuGfcsAfsu 178 AD-58112.1 A-118332.1AfgGfaUfuUfuGfAfGfuGfuAfaAfaGfgAfL96 128 A-118333.1uCfcUfuUfuAfcAfcucAfaAfaUfcCfusUfsu 179 AD-58118.1 A-118334.1AfaUfgAfuGfaAfCfCfuUfgUfaAfaGfaAfL96 129 A-118335.1uUfcUfuUfaCfaAfgguUfcAfuCfaUfusUfsu 180 AD-58124.1 A-118336.1AfuCfaUfuGfgAfAfCfaUfuUfuUfcAfuUfL96 130 A-118337.1aAfuGfaAfaAfaUfguuCfcAfaUfgAfusUfsu 181 AD-58130.1 A-118338.1AfgCfcAfgAfaAfUfUfcGfgAfgUfuAfuUfL96 131 A-118339.1aAfuAfaCfuCfcGfaauUfuCfuGfgCfusUfsg 182 AD-58089.1 A-118340.1UfcCfcUfgGfgAfGfAfuAfaAfaCfuCfaCfL96 132 A-118341.1gUfgAfgUfuUfuAfucuCfcCfaGfgGfasAfsa 183 AD-58095.1 A-118342.1GfaAfaAfuGfaUfGfAfaCfcUfuGfuAfaAfL96 133 A-118343.1uUfuAfcAfaGfgUfucaUfcAfuUfuUfcsUfsu 184 AD-58101.1 A-118344.1AfuUfgCfuCfaAfGfUfcAfcAfuUfuGfaUfL96 134 A-118345.1aUfcAfaAfuGfuGfacuUfgAfgCfaAfusUfsc 185 AD-58107.1 A-118346.1GfaGfaUfuGfcAfUfAfuGfcUfuAfuAfaAfL96 135 A-118347.1uUfuAfuAfaGfcAfuauGfcAfaUfcUfcsUfsg 186 AD-58113.1 A-118348.1GfuUfaUfcCfuGfAfUfaAfaAfaAfuUfuAfL96 136 A-118349.1uAfaAfuUfuUfuUfaucAfgGfaUfaAfcsUfsu 187 AD-58119.1 A-118350.1AfgGfaAfgUfuUfGfCfaGfcUfuUfuAfuUfL96 137 A-118351.1aAfuAfaAfaGfcUfgcaAfaCfuUfcCfusCfsa 188 AD-58125.1 A-118352.1GfaAfgAfaAfuUfGfAfuCfaUfaUfuGfgAfL96 138 A-118353.1uCfcAfaUfaUfgAfucaAfuUfuCfuUfcsUfsa 189 AD-58131.1 A-118354.1AfuCfcUfgAfuAfAfAfaAfaUfuUfaGfuUfL96 139 A-118355.1aAfcUfaAfaUfuUfuuuAfuCfaGfgAfusAfsa 190 AD-58090.1 A-118356.1UfgGfaAfaAfgAfAfAfuCfuUfaGfuAfaAfL96 140 A-118357.1uUfuAfcUfaAfgAfuuuCfuUfuUfcCfasAfsa 191 AD-58096.1 A-118358.1UfcUfuAfuCfaAfAfGfuAfuAfaAfcAfuUfL96 141 A-118359.1aAfuGfuUfuAfuAfcuuUfgAfuAfaGfasUfsg 192 AD-58102.1 A-118360.1UfcCfcUfaCfaAfAfCfuGfaAfuUfuGfgUfL96 142 A-118361.1aCfcAfaAfuUfcAfguuUfgUfaGfgGfasGfsa 193 AD-58108.1 A-118362.1CfaGfgAfgCfaAfAfCfaUfaUfgUfcAfuUfL96 143 A-118363.1aAfuGfaCfaUfaUfguuUfgCfuCfcUfgsUfsc 194 AD-58114.1 A-118364.1AfcAfuGfuAfaCfAfAfcUfgUfaGfuUfcAfL96 144 A-118365.1uGfaAfcUfaCfaGfuugUfuAfcAfuGfusAfsc 195 AD-58120.1 A-118366.1CfaGfgAfaAfuCfAfUfuGfgAfaCfaUfuUfL96 145 A-118367.1aAfaUfgUfuCfcAfaugAfuUfuCfcUfgsUfsu 196 AD-58126.1 A-118368.1UfuUfaAfgAfaUfUfUfuGfaAfaUfuAfcUfL96 146 A-118369.1aGfuAfaUfuUfcAfaaaUfuCfuUfaAfasGfsu 197 AD-58132.1 A-118370.1UfaUfuCfuGfcAfAfCfuGfaAfuUfcGfaUfL96 147 A-118371.1aUfcGfaAfuUfcAfguuGfcAfgAfaUfasAfsc 198 AD-58091.1 A-118372.1GfcCfcUfuGfgAfAfAfgAfgUfaUfuUfcAfL96 148 A-118373.1uGfaAfaUfaCfuCfuuuCfcAfaGfgGfcsUfsu 199 AD-58097.1 A-118374.1CfcUfgAfuAfaAfAfAfaUfuUfaGfuUfaCfL96 149 A-118375.1gUfaAfcUfaAfaUfuuuUfuAfuCfaGfgsAfsu 200 AD-58103.1 A-118376.1CfcCfuUfgGfaAfAfGfaGfuAfuUfuCfaAfL96 150 A-118377.1uUfgAfaAfuAfcUfcuuUfcCfaAfgGfgsCfsu 201 AD-58121.1 A-118382.1UfgCfaGfaUfcAfAfAfcAfcAfaUfuUfcAfL96 151 A-118383.1uGfaAfaUfuGfuGfuuuGfaUfcUfgCfasGfsa 202 AD-58133.1 A-118386.1CfaGfaUfcAfaAfCfAfcAfaUfuUfcAfgUfL96 152 A-118387.1aCfuGfaAfaUfuGfuguUfuGfaUfcUfgsCfsa 203 AD-58116.1 A-118396.1GfuUfcCfgGfaUfAfUfuUfgAfaCfuUfuUfL96 153 A-118397.1aAfaAfgUfuCfaAfauaUfcCfgGfaAfcsCfsg 204 AD-58644.1 A-119328.1AfsusUfuAfaAfcAfAfCfaAfgUfaCfcUfuUfL96 154 A-119329.1asAfsaGfgUfaCfuUfguuGfuUfuAfaAfuscsu 205 AD-58651.1 A-119328.2AfsusUfuAfaAfcAfAfCfaAfgUfaCfcUfuUfL96 155 A-119339.1asAfsaGfsgUfsaCfsuUfsguuGfsuUfsuAfsaAfsuscsu 206 AD-58641.1 A-119322.1UfsgsAfcAfaAfaUfAfAfcUfcAfcUfaUfaAfL96 156 A-119323.1usUfsaUfaGfuGfaGfuuaUfuUfuGfuCfasasu 207 AD-58648.1 A-119322.2UfsgsAfcAfaAfaUfAfAfcUfcAfcUfaUfaAfL96 157 A-119336.1usUfsaUfsaGfsuGfsaGfsuuaUfsuUfsuGfsuCfsasasu 208 AD-58642.1 A-119324.1GfsasCfaAfaAfuAfAfCfuCfaCfuAfuAfaUfL96 158 A-119325.1asUfsuAfuAfgUfgAfguuAfuUfuUfgUfcsasa 209 AD-58649.1 A-119324.2GfsasCfaAfaAfuAfAfCfuCfaCfuAfuAfaUfL96 159 A-119337.1asUfsuAfsuAfsgUfsgAfsguuAfsuUfsuUfsgUfscsasa 210 AD-58647.1 A-119334.1GfsusUfcCfgGfaUfAfUfuUfgAfaCfuUfuUfL96 160 A-119335.1asAfsaAfgUfuCfaAfauaUfcCfgGfaAfcscsg 211 AD-58654.1 A-119334.2GfsusUfcCfgGfaUfAfUfuUfgAfaCfuUfuUfL96 161 A-119342.1asAfsaAfsgUfsuCfsaAfsauaUfscCfsgGfsaAfscscsg 212 AD-58645.1 A-119330.1UfsgsCfaGfaUfcAfAfAfcAfcAfaUfuUfcAfL96 162 A-119331.1usGfsaAfaUfuGfuGfuuuGfaUfcUfgCfasgsa 213 AD-58652.1 A-119330.2UfsgsCfaGfaUfcAfAfAfcAfcAfaUfuUfcAfL96 163 A-119340.1usGfsaAfsaUfsuGfsuGfsuuuGfsaUfscUfsgCfsasgsa 214 AD-58643.1 A-119326.1AfsasGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuUfaUfaAfuAfL96 164 A-119327.1usAfsuUfaUfaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcUfususu 215 AD-58650.1 A-119326.2AfsasGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuUfaUfaAfuAfL96 165 A-119338.1usAfsuUfsaUfsaAfsaAfsauaUfscUfsuGfscUfsususu 216 AD-58646.1 A-119332.1CfsasGfaUfcAfaAfCfAfcAfaUfuUfcAfgUfL96 166 A-119333.1asCfsuGfaAfaUfuGfuguUfuGfaUfcUfgscsa 217 AD-58653.1 A-119332.2CfsasGfaUfcAfaAfCfAfcAfaUfuUfcAfgUfL96 167 A-119341.1asCfsuGfsaAfsaUfsuGfsuguUfsuGfsaUfscUfsgscsa 218 ⁴The Species Oligo nameand the position in the nucleotide sequence of the GenBank record thatthe antisense strand targets correspond to those shown in Table 3.

TABLE 5 Unmodified Sense and Antisense Strand Sequences of C5 dsRNAsSEQ ID SEQ ID Duplex ID Sense strand Sense Unmodified Sequence NO:Antisense Antisense Unmodified Sequence NO: Species_Oligo nameAD-58143.1 UM A-118423.1 CACUAUAAUUACUUGAUUU 219 A-118424.1AAAUCAAGUAAUUAUAGUG 302 NM_001735.2_1522-1540_as AD-58149.1 UMA-118425.1 UAACUCACUAUAAUUACUU 220 A-118426.1 AAGUAAUUAUAGUGAGUUA 303NM_001735.2_1517-1535_as AD-58155.1 UM A-118427.1 ACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAA221 A-118428.1 UUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGU 304 NM_001735.2_1511-1529_asAD-58161.1 UM A-118429.1 UCCUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUU 222 A-118430.1AAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAGGA 305 NM_001735.2_2733-2751_as AD-58167.1 UMA-118431.1 CAAAAUAACUCACUAUAAU 223 A-118432.1 AUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUG 306NM_001735.2_1512-1530_as AD-58173.1 UM A-118433.1 CUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUUCA224 A-118434.1 UGAAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAG 307 NM_001735.2_2735-2753_asAD-58179.1 UM A-118435.1 GCAAGAUAUUUUUAUAAUA 225 A-118436.1UAUUAUAAAAAUAUCUUGC 308 NM_001735.2_784-802_as AD-58185.1 UM A-118437.1AAUGUUUUUGUCAAGUACA 226 A-118438.1 UGUACUUGACAAAAACAUU 309NM_001735.2_4744-4762_as AD-58144.1 UM A-118439.1 UUAAACAACAAGUACCUUU227 A-118440.1 AAAGGUACUUGUUGUUUAA 310 NM_001735.2_982-1000_asAD-58150.1 UM A-118441.1 UCAGAAAGUCUGUGAAGGA 228 A-118442.1UCCUUCACAGACUUUCUGA 311 NM_001735.2_4578-4596_as AD-58156.1 UMA-118443.1 ACUGAAGCAUUUGAUGCAA 229 A-118444.1 UUGCAUCAAAUGCUUCAGU 312NM_001735.2_169-187_as AD-58162.1 UM A-118445.1 AGUUCUGUGUUAAAAUGUC 230A-118446.1 GACAUUUUAACACAGAACU 313 NM_001735.2_2591-2609_asAD-58168.1 UM A-118447.1 GAUUUUGAGUGUAAAAGGA 231 A-118448.1UCCUUUUACACUCAAAAUC 314 NM_001735.2_2955-2973_as AD-58174.1 UMA-118449.1 UGAUGAACCUUGUAAAGAA 232 A-118450.1 UUCUUUACAAGGUUCAUCA 315NM_001735.2_2025-2043_as AD-58180.1 UM A-118451.1 CAUUGGAACAUUUUUCAUU233 A-118452.1 AAUGAAAAAUGUUCCAAUG 316 NM_001735.2_3118-3136_asAD-58186.1 UM A-118453.1 CCAGAAAUUCGGAGUUAUU 234 A-118454.1AAUAACUCCGAAUUUCUGG 317 NM_001735.2_2317-2335_as AD-58145.1 UMA-118455.1 CCUGGGAGAUAAAACUCAC 235 A-118456.1 GUGAGUUUUAUCUCCCAGG 318NM_001735.2_3618-3636_as AD-58151.1 UM A-118457.1 AAAUGAUGAACCUUGUAAA236 A-118458.1 UUUACAAGGUUCAUCAUUU 319 NM_001735.2_2022-2040_asAD-58157.1 UM A-118459.1 UGCUCAAGUCACAUUUGAU 237 A-118460.1AUCAAAUGUGACUUGAGCA 320 NM_001735.2_918-936_as AD-58163.1 UM A-118461.1GAUUGCAUAUGCUUAUAAA 238 A-118462.1 UUUAUAAGCAUAUGCAAUC 321NM_001735.2_4698-4716_as AD-58169.1 UM A-118463.1 UAUCCUGAUAAAAAAUUUA239 A-118464.1 UAAAUUUUUUAUCAGGAUA 322 NM_001735.2_205-223_asAD-58175.1 UM A-118465.1 GAAGUUUGCAGCUUUUAUU 240 A-118466.1AAUAAAAGCUGCAAACUUC 323 NM_001735.2_4147-4165_as AD-58181.1 UMA-118467.1 AGAAAUUGAUCAUAUUGGA 241 A-118468.1 UCCAAUAUGAUCAAUUUCU 324NM_001735.2_555-573_as AD-58187.1 UM A-118469.1 CCUGAUAAAAAAUUUAGUU 242A-118470.1 AACUAAAUUUUUUAUCAGG 325 NM_001735.2_208-226_as AD-58146.1 UMA-118471.1 GAAAAGAAAUCUUAGUAAA 243 A-118472.1 UUUACUAAGAUUUCUUUUC 326NM_001735.2_2786-2804_as AD-58152.1 UM A-118473.1 UUAUCAAAGUAUAAACAUU244 A-118474.1 AAUGUUUAUACUUUGAUAA 327 NM_001735.2_1596-1614_asAD-58158.1 UM A-118475.1 CCUACAAACUGAAUUUGGU 245 A-118476.1ACCAAAUUCAGUUUGUAGG 328 NM_001735.2_1082-1100_as AD-58164.1 UMA-118477.1 GGAGCAAACAUAUGUCAUU 246 A-118478.1 AAUGACAUAUGUUUGCUCC 329NM_001735.2_87-105_as AD-58170.1 UM A-118479.1 AUGUAACAACUGUAGUUCA 247A-118480.1 UGAACUACAGUUGUUACAU 330 NM_001735.2_4109-4127_asAD-58176.1 UM A-118481.1 GGAAAUCAUUGGAACAUUU 248 A-118482.1AAAUGUUCCAAUGAUUUCC 331 NM_001735.2_3112-3130_as AD-58182.1 UMA-118483.1 UAAGAAUUUUGAAAUUACU 249 A-118484.1 AGUAAUUUCAAAAUUCUUA 332NM_001735.2_759-777_as AD-58188.1 UM A-118485.1 UUCUGCAACUGAAUUCGAU 250A-118486.1 AUCGAAUUCAGUUGCAGAA 333 NM_001735.2_4412-4430_asAD-58147.1 UM A-118487.1 CCUUGGAAAGAGUAUUUCA 251 A-118488.1UGAAAUACUCUUUCCAAGG 334 NM_001735.2_1886-1904_as AD-58153.1 UMA-118489.1 UGAUAAAAAAUUUAGUUAC 252 A-118490.1 GUAACUAAAUUUUUUAUCA 335NM_001735.2_210-228_as AD-58159.1 UM A-118491.1 CUUGGAAAGAGUAUUUCAA 253A-118492.1 UUGAAAUACUCUUUCCAAG 336 NM_001735.2_1887-1905_asAD-58190.1 UM A-118519.1 CACUAUAAUUACUUGAUUU 254 A-118520.1AAAUCAAGUAAUUAUAGUG 337 NM_001735.2_1522-1540_as AD-58196.1 UMA-118521.1 UAACUCACUAUAAUUACUU 255 A-118522.1 AAGUAAUUAUAGUGAGUUA 338NM_001735.2_1517-1535_as AD-58202.1 UM A-118523.1 ACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAA256 A-118524.1 UUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGU 339 NM_001735.2_1511-1529_asAD-58208.1 UM A-118525.1 UCCUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUU 257 A-118526.1AAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAGGA 340 NM_001735.2_2733-2751_as AD-58214.1 UMA-118527.1 CAAAAUAACUCACUAUAAU 258 A-118528.1 AUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUG 341NM_001735.2_1512-1530_as AD-58220.1 UM A-118529.1 CUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUUCA259 A-118530.1 UGAAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAG 342 NM_001735.2_2735-2753_asAD-58226.1 UM A-118531.1 GCAAGAUAUUUUUAUAAUA 260 A-118532.1UAUUAUAAAAAUAUCUUGC 343 NM_001735.2_784-802_as AD-58231.1 UM A-118533.1AAUGUUUUUGUCAAGUACA 261 A-118534.1 UGUACUUGACAAAAACAUU 344NM_001735.2_4744-4762_as AD-58191.1 UM A-118535.1 UUAAACAACAAGUACCUUU262 A-118536.1 AAAGGUACUUGUUGUUUAA 345 NM_001735.2_982-1000_asAD-58197.1 UM A-118537.1 UCAGAAAGUCUGUGAAGGA 263 A-118538.1UCCUUCACAGACUUUCUGA 346 NM_001735.2_4578-4596_as AD-58203.1 UMA-118539.1 ACUGAAGCAUUUGAUGCAA 264 A-118540.1 UUGCAUCAAAUGCUUCAGU 347NM_001735.2_169-187_as AD-58209.1 UM A-118541.1 AGUUCUGUGUUAAAAUGUC 265A-118542.1 GACAUUUUAACACAGAACU 348 NM_001735.2_2591-2609_asAD-58233.1 UM A-118565.1 CACUAUAAUUACUUGAUUU 266 A-118566.1AAAUCAAGUAAUUAUAGUG 349 NM_001735.2_1522-1540_as AD-58193.1 UMA-118567.1 UAACUCACUAUAAUUACUU 267 A-118568.1 AAGUAAUUAUAGUGAGUUA 350NM_001735.2_1517-1535_as AD-58199.1 UM A-118569.1 ACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAA268 A-118570.1 UUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGU 351 NM_001735.2_1511-1529_asAD-58205.1 UM A-118571.1 UCCUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUU 269 A-118572.1AAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAGGA 352 NM_001735.2_2733-2751_as AD-58211.1 UMA-118573.1 CAAAAUAACUCACUAUAAU 270 A-118574.1 AUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUG 353NM_001735.2_1512-1530_as AD-58217.1 UM A-118575.1 CUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUUCA271 A-118576.1 UGAAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAG 354 NM_001735.2_2735-2753_asAD-58223.1 UM A-118577.1 GCAAGAUAUUUUUAUAAUA 272 A-118578.1UAUUAUAAAAAUAUCUUGC 355 NM_001735.2_784-802_as AD-58229.1 UM A-118579.1AAUGUUUUUGUCAAGUACA 273 A-118580.1 UGUACUUGACAAAAACAUU 356NM_001735.2_4744-4762_as AD-58234.1 UM A-118581.1 UUAAACAACAAGUACCUUU274 A-118582.1 AAAGGUACUUGUUGUUUAA 357 NM_001735.2_982-1000_asAD-58194.1 UM A-118583.1 UCAGAAAGUCUGUGAAGGA 275 A-118584.1UCCUUCACAGACUUUCUGA 358 NM_001735.2_4578-4596_as AD-58200.1 UMA-118585.1 ACUGAAGCAUUUGAUGCAA 276 A-118586.1 UUGCAUCAAAUGCUUCAGU 359NM_001735.2_169-187_as AD-58206.1 UM A-118587.1 AGUUCUGUGUUAAAAUGUC 277A-118588.1 GACAUUUUAACACAGAACU 360 NM_001735.2_2591-2609_asAD-58236.1 UM A-118423.2 CACUAUAAUUACUUGAUUU 278 A-118644.1AAAUCAAGUAAUUAUAGUG 361 NM_001735.2_1522-1540_as AD-58242.1 UMA-118425.2 UAACUCACUAUAAUUACUU 279 A-118645.1 AAGUAAUUAUAGUGAGUUA 362NM_001735.2_1517-1535_as AD-58248.1 UM A-118427.2 ACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAA280 A-118646.1 UUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGU 363 NM_001735.2_1511-1529_asAD-58254.1 UM A-118429.2 UCCUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUU 281 A-118647.1AAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAGGA 364 NM_001735.2_2733-2751_as AD-58260.1 UMA-118431.2 CAAAAUAACUCACUAUAAU 282 A-118648.1 AUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUG 365NM_001735.2_1512-1530_as AD-58266.1 UM A-118433.2 CUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUUCA283 A-118649.1 UGAAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAG 366 NM_001735.2_2735-2753_asAD-58272.1 UM A-118435.2 GCAAGAUAUUUUUAUAAUA 284 A-118650.1UAUUAUAAAAAUAUCUUGC 367 NM_001735.2_784-802_as AD-58277.1 UM A-118437.2AAUGUUUUUGUCAAGUACA 285 A-118651.1 UGUACUUGACAAAAACAUU 368NM_001735.2_4744-4762_as AD-58237.1 UM A-118439.2 UUAAACAACAAGUACCUUU286 A-118652.1 AAAGGUACUUGUUGUUUAA 369 NM_001735.2_982-1000_asAD-58243.1 UM A-118441.2 UCAGAAAGUCUGUGAAGGA 287 A-118653.1UCCUUCACAGACUUUCUGA 370 NM_001735.2_4578-4596_as AD-58249.1 UMA-118443.2 ACUGAAGCAUUUGAUGCAA 288 A-118654.1 UUGCAUCAAAUGCUUCAGU 371NM_001735.2_169-187_as AD-58255.1 UM A-118445.2 AGUUCUGUGUUAAAAUGUC 289A-118655.1 GACAUUUUAACACAGAACU 372 NM_001735.2_2591-2609_asAD-58279.1 UM A-118423.3 CACUAUAAUUACUUGAUUU 290 A-118667.1AAAUCAAGUAAUUAUAGUG 373 NM_001735.2_1522-1540_as AD-58239.1 UMA-118425.3 UAACUCACUAUAAUUACUU 291 A-118668.1 AAGUAAUUAUAGUGAGUUA 374NM_001735.2_1517-1535_as AD-58245.1 UM A-118427.3 ACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAA292 A-118669.1 UUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGU 375 NM_001735.2_1511-1529_asAD-58251.1 UM A-118429.3 UCCUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUU 293 A-118670.1AAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAGGA 376 NM_001735.2_2733-2751_as AD-58257.1 UMA-118431.3 CAAAAUAACUCACUAUAAU 294 A-118671.1 AUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUG 377NM_001735.2_1512-1530_as AD-58263.1 UM A-118433.3 CUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUUCA295 A-118672.1 UGAAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAG 378 NM_001735.2_2735-2753_asAD-58269.1 UM A-118435.3 GCAAGAUAUUUUUAUAAUA 296 A-118673.1UAUUAUAAAAAUAUCUUGC 379 NM_001735.2_784-802_as AD-58275.1 UM A-118437.3AAUGUUUUUGUCAAGUACA 297 A-118674.1 UGUACUUGACAAAAACAUU 380NM_001735.2_4744-4762_as AD-58280.1 UM A-118439.3 UUAAACAACAAGUACCUUU298 A-118675.1 AAAGGUACUUGUUGUUUAA 381 NM_001735.2_982-1000_asAD-58240.1 UM A-118441.3 UCAGAAAGUCUGUGAAGGA 299 A-118676.1UCCUUCACAGACUUUCUGA 382 NM_001735.2_4578-4596_as AD-58246.1 UMA-118443.3 ACUGAAGCAUUUGAUGCAA 300 A-118677.1 UUGCAUCAAAUGCUUCAGU 383NM_001735.2_169-187_as AD-58252.1 UM A-118445.3 AGUUCUGUGUUAAAAUGUC 301A-118678.1 GACAUUUUAACACAGAACU 384 NM_001735.2_2591-2609_as

TABLE 6 Modified Sense and Antisense Strand Sequences of C5 dsRNAsSEQ ID SEQ ID Duplex ID Sense strand Sense sequence NO: AntisenseAntisense sequence NO: Species_Oligo name⁵ AD-58143.1 A-118423.1cAcuAuAAuuAcuuGAuuudTsdT 385 A-118424.1 AAAUcAAGuAAUuAuAGUGdTsdT 468AD-58149.1 A-118425.1 uAAcucAcuAuAAuuAcuudTsdT 386 A-118426.1AAGuAAUuAuAGUGAGUuAdTsdT 469 AD-58155.1 A-118427.1AcAAAAuAAcucAcuAuAAdTsdT 387 A-118428.1 UuAuAGUGAGUuAUUUUGUdTsdT 470AD-58161.1 A-118429.1 uccucuGGAAAuuGGccuudTsdT 388 A-118430.1AAGGCcAAUUUCcAGAGGAdTsdT 471 AD-58167.1 A-118431.1cAAAAuAAcucAcuAuAAudTsdT 389 A-118432.1 AUuAuAGUGAGUuAUUUUGdTsdT 472AD-58173.1 A-118433.1 cucuGGAAAuuGGccuucAdTsdT 390 A-118434.1UGAAGGCcAAUUUCcAGAGdTsdT 473 AD-58179.1 A-118435.1GcAAGAuAuuuuuAuAAuAdTsdT 391 A-118436.1 uAUuAuAAAAAuAUCUUGCdTsdT 474AD-58185.1 A-118437.1 AAuGuuuuuGucAAGuAcAdTsdT 392 A-118438.1UGuACUUGAcAAAAAcAUUdTsdT 475 AD-58144.1 A-118439.1uuAAAcAAcAAGuAccuuudTsdT 393 A-118440.1 AAAGGuACUUGUUGUUuAAdTsdT 476AD-58150.1 A-118441.1 ucAGAAAGucuGuGAAGGAdTsdT 394 A-118442.1UCCUUcAcAGACUUUCUGAdTsdT 477 AD-58156.1 A-118443.1AcuGAAGcAuuuGAuGcAAdTsdT 395 A-118444.1 UUGcAUcAAAUGCUUcAGUdTsdT 478AD-58162.1 A-118445.1 AGuucuGuGuuAAAAuGucdTsdT 396 A-118446.1GAcAUUUuAAcAcAGAACUdTsdT 479 AD-58168.1 A-118447.1GAuuuuGAGuGuAAAAGGAdTsdT 397 A-118448.1 UCCUUUuAcACUcAAAAUCdTsdT 480AD-58174.1 A-118449.1 uGAuGAAccuuGuAAAGAAdTsdT 398 A-118450.1UUCUUuAcAAGGUUcAUcAdTsdT 481 AD-58180.1 A-118451.1cAuuGGAAcAuuuuucAuudTsdT 399 A-118452.1 AAUGAAAAAUGUUCcAAUGdTsdT 482AD-58186.1 A-118453.1 ccAGAAAuucGGAGuuAuudTsdT 400 A-118454.1AAuAACUCCGAAUUUCUGGdTsdT 483 AD-58145.1 A-118455.1ccuGGGAGAuAAAAcucAcdTsdT 401 A-118456.1 GUGAGUUUuAUCUCCcAGGdTsdT 484AD-58151.1 A-118457.1 AAAuGAuGAAccuuGuAAAdTsdT 402 A-118458.1UUuAcAAGGUUcAUcAUUUdTsdT 485 AD-58157.1 A-118459.1uGcucAAGucAcAuuuGAudTsdT 403 A-118460.1 AUcAAAUGUGACUUGAGcAdTsdT 486AD-58163.1 A-118461.1 GAuuGcAuAuGcuuAuAAAdTsdT 404 A-118462.1UUuAuAAGcAuAUGcAAUCdTsdT 487 AD-58169.1 A-118463.1uAuccuGAuAAAAAAuuuAdTsdT 405 A-118464.1 uAAAUUUUUuAUcAGGAuAdTsdT 488AD-58175.1 A-118465.1 GAAGuuuGcAGcuuuuAuudTsdT 406 A-118466.1AAuAAAAGCUGcAAACUUCdTsdT 489 AD-58181.1 A-118467.1AGAAAuuGAucAuAuuGGAdTsdT 407 A-118468.1 UCcAAuAUGAUcAAUUUCUdTsdT 490AD-58187.1 A-118469.1 ccuGAuAAAAAAuuuAGuudTsdT 408 A-118470.1AACuAAAUUUUUuAUcAGGdTsdT 491 AD-58146.1 A-118471.1GAAAAGAAAucuuAGuAAAdTsdT 409 A-118472.1 UUuACuAAGAUUUCUUUUCdTsdT 492AD-58152.1 A-118473.1 uuAucAAAGuAuAAAcAuudTsdT 410 A-118474.1AAUGUUuAuACUUUGAuAAdTsdT 493 AD-58158.1 A-118475.1ccuAcAAAcuGAAuuuGGudTsdT 411 A-118476.1 ACcAAAUUcAGUUUGuAGGdTsdT 494AD-58164.1 A-118477.1 GGAGcAAAcAuAuGucAuudTsdT 412 A-118478.1AAUGAcAuAUGUUUGCUCCdTsdT 495 AD-58170.1 A-118479.1AuGuAAcAAcuGuAGuucAdTsdT 413 A-118480.1 UGAACuAcAGUUGUuAcAUdTsdT 496AD-58176.1 A-118481.1 GGAAAucAuuGGAAcAuuudTsdT 414 A-118482.1AAAUGUUCcAAUGAUUUCCdTsdT 497 AD-58182.1 A-118483.1uAAGAAuuuuGAAAuuAcudTsdT 415 A-118484.1 AGuAAUUUcAAAAUUCUuAdTsdT 498AD-58188.1 A-118485.1 uucuGcAAcuGAAuucGAudTsdT 416 A-118486.1AUCGAAUUcAGUUGcAGAAdTsdT 499 AD-58147.1 A-118487.1ccuuGGAAAGAGuAuuucAdTsdT 417 A-118488.1 UGAAAuACUCUUUCcAAGGdTsdT 500AD-58153.1 A-118489.1 uGAuAAAAAAuuuAGuuAcdTsdT 418 A-118490.1GuAACuAAAUUUUUuAUcAdTsdT 501 AD-58159.1 A-118491.1cuuGGAAAGAGuAuuucAAdTsdT 419 A-118492.1 UUGAAAuACUCUUUCcAAGdTsdT 502AD-58190.1 A-118519.1 CACUAUAAUUACUUGAUUUdTdT 420 A-118520.1AAAUCAAGUAAUUAUAGUGdTdT 503 AD-58196.1 A-118521.1UAACUCACUAUAAUUACUUdTdT 421 A-118522.1 AAGUAAUUAUAGUGAGUUAdTdT 504AD-58202.1 A-118523.1 ACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAAdTdT 422 A-118524.1UUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUdTdT 505 AD-58208.1 A-118525.1UCCUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUUdTdT 423 A-118526.1 AAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAGGAdTdT 506AD-58214.1 A-118527.1 CAAAAUAACUCACUAUAAUdTdT 424 A-118528.1AUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGdTdT 507 AD-58220.1 A-118529.1CUCUGGAAAUUGGCCUUCAdTdT 425 A-118530.1 UGAAGGCCAAUUUCCAGAGdTdT 508AD-58226.1 A-118531.1 GCAAGAUAUUUUUAUAAUAdTdT 426 A-118532.1UAUUAUAAAAAUAUCUUGCdTdT 509 AD-58231.1 A-118533.1AAUGUUUUUGUCAAGUACAdTdT 427 A-118534.1 UGUACUUGACAAAAACAUUdTdT 510AD-58191.1 A-118535.1 UUAAACAACAAGUACCUUUdTdT 428 A-118536.1AAAGGUACUUGUUGUUUAAdTdT 511 AD-58197.1 A-118537.1UCAGAAAGUCUGUGAAGGAdTdT 429 A-118538.1 UCCUUCACAGACUUUCUGAdTdT 512AD-58203.1 A-118539.1 ACUGAAGCAUUUGAUGCAAdTdT 430 A-118540.1UUGCAUCAAAUGCUUCAGUdTdT 513 AD-58209.1 A-118541.1AGUUCUGUGUUAAAAUGUCdTdT 431 A-118542.1 GACAUUUUAACACAGAACUdTdT 514AD-58233.1 A-118565.1 CfACfUfAUfAAUfUfACfUfUfGAUfUfUfdTsdT 432A-118566.1 AAAUCfAAGUfAAUUfAUfAGUGdTsdT 515 AD-58193.1 A-118567.1UfAACfUfCfACfUfAUfAAUfUfACfUfUfdTsdT 433 A-118568.1AAGUfAAUUfAUfAGUGAGUUfAdTsdT 516 AD-58199.1 A-118569.1ACfAAAAUfAACfUfCfACfUfAUfAAdTsdT 434 A-118570.1UUfAUfAGUGAGUUfAUUUUGUdTsdT 517 AD-58205.1 A-118571.1UfCfCfUfCfUfGGAAAUfUfGGCfCfUfUfdTsdT 435 A-118572.1AAGGCCfAAUUUCCfAGAGGAdTsdT 518 AD-58211.1 A-118573.1CfAAAAUfAACfUfCfACfUfAUfAAUfdTsdT 436 A-118574.1AUUfAUfAGUGAGUUfAUUUUGdTsdT 519 AD-58217.1 A-118575.1CfUfCfUfGGAAAUfUfGGCfCfUfUfCfAdTsdT 437 A-118576.1UGAAGGCCfAAUUUCCfAGAGdTsdT 520 AD-58223.1 A-118577.1GCfAAGAUfAUfUfUfUfUfAUfAAUfAdTsdT 438 A-118578.1UfAUUfAUfAAAAAUfAUCUUGCdTsdT 521 AD-58229.1 A-118579.1AAUfGUfUfUfUfUfGUfCfAAGUfACfAdTsdT 439 A-118580.1UGUfACUUGACfAAAAACfAUUdTsdT 522 AD-58234.1 A-118581.1UfUfAAACfAACfAAGUfACfCfUfUfUfdTsdT 440 A-118582.1AAAGGUfACUUGUUGUUUfAAdTsdT 523 AD-58194.1 A-118583.1UfCfAGAAAGUfCfUfGUfGAAGGAdTsdT 441 A-118584.1 UCCUUCfACfAGACUUUCUGAdTsdT524 AD-58200.1 A-118585.1 ACfUfGAAGCfAUfUfUfGAUfGCfAAdTsdT 442A-118586.1 UUGCfAUCfAAAUGCUUCfAGUdTsdT 525 AD-58206.1 A-118587.1AGUfUfCfUfGUfGUfUfAAAAUfGUfCfdTsdT 443 A-118588.1GACfAUUUUfAACfACfAGAACUdTsdT 526 AD-58236.1 A-118423.2cAcuAuAAuuAcuuGAuuudTsdT 444 A-118644.1 AAAUcAAGuAAUuAuAGuGdTsdT 527AD-58242.1 A-118425.2 uAAcucAcuAuAAuuAcuudTsdT 445 A-118645.1AAGuAAUuAuAGuGAGUuAdTsdT 528 AD-58248.1 A-118427.2AcAAAAuAAcucAcuAuAAdTsdT 446 A-118646.1 UuAuAGuGAGUuAuUuuGUdTsdT 529AD-58254.1 A-118429.2 uccucuGGAAAuuGGccuudTsdT 447 A-118647.1AAGGCcAAuUUCcAGAGGAdTsdT 530 AD-58260.1 A-118431.2cAAAAuAAcucAcuAuAAudTsdT 448 A-118648.1 AUuAuAGuGAGUuAuUuuGdTsdT 531AD-58266.1 A-118433.2 cucuGGAAAuuGGccuucAdTsdT 449 A-118649.1uGAAGGCcAAuUUCcAGAGdTsdT 532 AD-58272.1 A-118435.2GcAAGAuAuuuuuAuAAuAdTsdT 450 A-118650.1 uAUuAuAAAAAuAUCuuGCdTsdT 533AD-58277.1 A-118437.2 AAuGuuuuuGucAAGuAcAdTsdT 451 A-118651.1uGuACuuGAcAAAAAcAuUdTsdT 534 AD-58237.1 A-118439.2uuAAAcAAcAAGuAccuuudTsdT 452 A-118652.1 AAAGGuACuuGuuGuUuAAdTsdT 535AD-58243.1 A-118441.2 ucAGAAAGucuGuGAAGGAdTsdT 453 A-118653.1UCCuUcAcAGACuUUCuGAdTsdT 536 AD-58249.1 A-118443.2AcuGAAGcAuuuGAuGcAAdTsdT 454 A-118654.1 uuGcAUcAAAuGCuUcAGUdTsdT 537AD-58255.1 A-118445.2 AGuucuGuGuuAAAAuGucdTsdT 455 A-118655.1GAcAuUUuAAcAcAGAACUdTsdT 538 AD-58279.1 A-118423.3cAcuAuAAuuAcuuGAuuudTsdT 456 A-118667.1 AAAUCAAGuAAuuAuAgugdTsdT 539AD-58239.1 A-118425.3 uAAcucAcuAuAAuuAcuudTsdT 457 A-118668.1AAGuAAuUAuAGuGAGuuadTsdT 540 AD-58245.1 A-118427.3AcAAAAuAAcucAcuAuAAdTsdT 458 A-118669.1 UuAuAGuGAGuuAuuuugudTsdT 541AD-58251.1 A-118429.3 uccucuGGAAAuuGGccuudTsdT 459 A-118670.1AAGGCCAAuUuCCAGAggadTsdT 542 AD-58257.1 A-118431.3cAAAAuAAcucAcuAuAAudTsdT 460 A-118671.1 AuUAuAGuGAGuuAuuuugdTsdT 543AD-58263.1 A-118433.3 cucuGGAAAuuGGccuucAdTsdT 461 A-118672.1UGAAGGCCAAuuuCCAgagdTsdT 544 AD-58269.1 A-118435.3GcAAGAuAuuuuuAuAAuAdTsdT 462 A-118673.1 UAuUAuAAAAAuAuCuugcdTsdT 545AD-58275.1 A-118437.3 AAuGuuuuuGucAAGuAcAdTsdT 463 A-118674.1UGuACuUGACAAAAACauudTsdT 546 AD-58280.1 A-118439.3uuAAAcAAcAAGuAccuuudTsdT 464 A-118675.1 AAAGGuACuUGuuGuuuaadTsdT 547AD-58240.1 A-118441.3 ucAGAAAGucuGuGAAGGAdTsdT 465 A-118676.1UCCuUCACAGACuuuCugadTsdT 548 AD-58246.1 A-118443.3AcuGAAGcAuuuGAuGcAAdTsdT 466 A-118677.1 UuGCAUCAAAuGCuuCagudTsdT 549AD-58252.1 A-118445.3 AGuucuGuGuuAAAAuGucdTsdT 467 A-118678.1GACAuUuUAACACAGAacudTsdT 550 ⁵The Species Oligo name and the position inthe nucleotide sequence of the GenBank record that the antisense strandtargets correspond to those shown in Table 5.

TABLE 7 C5 single dose screen in Hep3B cells with GalNAC conjugatediRNAs 10 nM 0.1 nM 10 nM 0.1 nM Duplex ID AVG AVG STDEV STDEV AD-58093.115.62 21.60 7.48 6.52 AD-58099.1 9.07 14.70 1.18 4.65 AD-58105.1 36.7160.23 5.07 19.83 AD-58111.1 11.83 22.78 3.51 12.75 AD-58117.1 12.4333.46 2.00 23.56 AD-58123.1 8.05 15.18 2.89 7.94 AD-58129.1 10.77 40.061.30 19.66 AD-58088.1 6.55 16.40 1.24 4.58 AD-58094.1 19.59 40.68 7.6412.30 AD-58100.1 10.92 20.12 0.74 8.38 AD-58106.1 10.97 37.23 2.49 19.95AD-58112.1 13.24 29.32 2.90 14.08 AD-58118.1 6.63 15.23 0.54 5.72AD-58124.1 7.17 13.00 1.44 6.48 AD-58130.1 10.38 17.92 2.36 6.92AD-58089.1 8.81 30.67 2.91 10.53 AD-58095.1 8.72 14.66 1.04 3.37AD-58101.1 8.17 19.36 1.30 5.69 AD-58107.1 4.84 18.10 1.66 7.21AD-58113.1 8.78 14.62 1.77 7.89 AD-58119.1 8.90 15.01 0.91 7.35AD-58125.1 11.13 17.04 2.61 9.03 AD-58131.1 13.50 40.14 1.08 12.07AD-58090.1 7.90 21.57 2.95 6.61 AD-58096.1 8.02 16.56 1.54 6.68AD-58102.1 12.40 27.93 1.83 11.78 AD-58108.1 12.02 15.07 2.88 5.74AD-58114.1 11.86 25.05 1.48 9.46 AD-58120.1 7.65 10.57 0.58 3.56AD-58126.1 8.45 15.39 2.08 7.42 AD-58132.1 8.50 19.26 2.52 9.38AD-58091.1 8.68 18.05 2.95 6.62 AD-58097.1 9.31 23.02 0.67 10.10AD-58103.1 8.53 17.23 2.90 7.27 AD-1955 57.41 81.16 10.76 5.29 Mock78.61 75.97 5.70 2.76 Untreated 100 100 6.13 5.98

TABLE 8 C5 single dose transfection screen in primary mouse hepatocyteswith GalNAC conjugated iRNAs 10 nM 0.1 nM 10 nM 0.1 nM Duplex ID AVG AVGSTDEV STDEV AD-58093.1 1.53 1.65 0.17 0.25 AD-58099.1 1.65 1.50 0.610.22 AD-58105.1 11.20 46.95 0.08 3.89 AD-58111.1 2.49 2.13 0.26 0.20AD-58117.1 3.57 31.91 0.93 0.62 AD-58123.1 4.29 2.97 0.11 2.22AD-58129.1 1.19 8.53 0.23 0.72 AD-58088.1 0.84 1.34 0.68 0.07 AD-58094.111.34 66.82 0.17 3.01 AD-58100.1 2.78 1.51 0.43 0.33 AD-58106.1 6.7952.91 4.42 6.78 AD-58121.1 1.94 2.15 0.04 0.91 AD-58133.1 1.74 3.25 0.191.64 AD-58116.1 1.76 2.21 1.27 0.78 AD-1955 87.39 91.71 5.77 4.68 Mock79.67 89.02 1.51 3.91 Untreated 100 100 6.39 13.11

TABLE 9 C5 single dose screen in primary Cynomolgus hepatocytes withGalNAC conjugated iRNAs 500 nM 5 nM 500 nM 5 nM Duplex ID AVG AVG STDEVSTDEV AD-58093.1 63.94 83.09 2.14 12.65 AD-58099.1 61.34 85.85 12.3221.95 AD-58105.1 91.98 97.57 6.09 11.48 AD-58111.1 71.27 92.28 1.9312.72 AD-58117.1 73.42 88.82 3.24 11.08 AD-58123.1 75.14 73.06 7.72 9.71AD-58129.1 81.66 90.62 2.13 4.77 AD-58088.1 53.63 87.03 5.93 19.86AD-58094.1 89.62 93.65 0.87 14.76 AD-58100.1 79.56 96.70 4.31 1.10AD-58106.1 116.24 125.99 14.28 40.65 AD-58112.1 97.19 107.81 N/A 3.13AD-58118.1 67.40 97.38 5.28 22.64 AD-58124.1 58.04 96.14 8.72 10.64AD-58130.1 84.19 88.65 10.50 4.34 AD-58089.1 83.83 83.44 1.91 12.26AD-58095.1 58.53 78.02 15.07 12.45 AD-58101.1 76.68 76.73 3.95 6.35AD-58107.1 57.37 86.78 14.71 2.99 AD-58113.1 37.79 71.10 8.27 7.76AD-58119.1 36.77 83.16 3.42 9.66 AD-58125.1 72.40 96.53 4.46 4.96AD-58131.1 95.58 101.69 10.17 2.21 AD-58090.1 56.37 75.00 3.21 4.97AD-58096.1 44.33 57.99 11.46 25.17 AD-58102.1 95.46 89.35 0.83 1.76AD-58108.1 41.54 56.41 8.41 0.14 AD-58114.1 88.32 101.88 20.02 30.29AD-58120.1 37.34 56.41 0.73 2.14 AD-58126.1 84.97 105.90 2.39 7.96AD-58132.1 81.55 85.12 12.93 8.94 AD-58091.1 78.88 84.60 44.66 17.40AD-58097.1 106.06 98.16 13.74 3.14 AD-58103.1 57.21 89.46 6.40 5.93Untreated 100 100 8.77 10.33

TABLE 10 C5 single dose free uptake screen in primary mouse hepatocyteswith GalNAC conjugated iRNAs 500 nM 5 nM 500 nM 5 nM Duplex ID AVG AVGSTDEV STDEV AD-58093.1 31.62 64.91 7.13 8.39 AD-58099.1 9.46 29.63 1.295.66 AD-58105.1 84.77 96.41 5.22 1.89 AD-58111.1 17.35 50.95 1.21 3.16AD-58117.1 94.95 139.52 15.43 43.39 AD-58123.1 13.07 44.58 2.11 3.49AD-58129.1 68.87 85.04 2.62 4.42 AD-58088.1 17.61 48.22 2.22 3.40AD-58094.1 95.92 104.23 4.16 6.53 AD-58100.1 34.92 61.71 1.30 2.15AD-58106.1 85.26 107.53 2.30 3.38 AD-58121.1 12.88 43.76 1.41 1.28AD-58133.1 20.97 42.76 0.24 0.11 AD-58116.1 8.35 38.04 1.35 1.40Untreated 100.00 100.00 3.85 4.38

TABLE 11 IC₅₀ data in primary Cynomolgus hepatocytes with GalNACconjugated iRNAs Duplex ID IC₅₀ (nM) STDEV AD-58099.1 3.131 1.141AD-58111.1 12.750 5.280 AD-58123.1 0.679 7.587 AD-58088.1 0.218 3.487AD-58113.1 7.296 3.540 AD-58119.1 33.240 14.740 AD-58096.1 10.380 4.199AD-58108.1 0.953 10.080 AD-58120.1 36.170 88.070

TABLE 12 IC₅₀ data in primary mouse hepatocytes with GalNAC conjugatediRNAs Duplex ID IC₅₀ (nM) STDEV AD-58099 3.777 0.122 AD-58111 0.6222.421 AD-58123 0.549 1.626 AD-58088 9.513 2.588 AD-58121 2.169 1.176AD-58133 3.802 1.006 AD-58116 2.227 0.604 AD-58644.1 4.596 0.3506AD-58651.1 59.76 51.99 AD-58641.1 0.82 0.2618 AD-58648.1 7.031 1.256AD-58642.1 0.5414 0.7334 AD-58649.1 3.32 4.922 AD-58647.1 1.356 0.5215AD-58654.1 2.09 0.8338 AD-58645.1 2.944 0.3315 AD-58652.1 5.316 2.477AD-58643.1 2.179 1.112 AD-58650.1 8.223 3.76 AD-58646.1 2.581 0.8186AD-58653.1 2.451 1.249

TABLE 13 C5 single dose screen in Hep3B cells with modified andunmodified iRNAs 1 nM 0.01 nM 1 nM 0.01 nM Duplex AVG AVG STDEV STDEVAD-58143.1 12.13 100.58 3.47 3.94 AD-58149.1 10.46 64.97 0.98 0.00AD-58155.1 44.88 76.24 1.56 3.74 AD-58161.1 8.51 102.30 1.06 0.50AD-58167.1 6.54 76.24 1.15 3.74 AD-58173.1 6.85 107.44 0.85 4.74AD-58179.1 10.19 78.07 0.59 1.15 AD-58185.1 29.46 79.99 3.64 0.78AD-58144.1 16.82 81.95 1.09 0.40 AD-58150.1 11.05 76.20 2.55 0.00AD-58156.1 25.92 76.73 2.72 1.50 AD-58162.1 13.25 71.89 0.43 3.87AD-58168.1 9.74 45.16 0.52 1.11 AD-58174.1 4.84 70.14 0.25 2.75AD-58180.1 9.41 56.77 1.91 1.95 AD-58186.1 9.97 68.91 1.03 0.34AD-58145.1 14.29 103.38 1.94 2.03 AD-58151.1 10.16 81.17 1.71 4.77AD-58157.1 4.72 63.19 1.05 0.00 AD-58163.1 4.95 40.13 1.65 0.59AD-58169.1 17.02 83.10 1.88 2.04 AD-58175.1 8.30 62.54 0.28 0.31AD-58181.1 21.89 55.26 4.22 3.52 AD-58187.1 61.96 71.12 2.61 2.79AD-58146.1 14.25 95.23 2.64 6.53 AD-58152.1 11.22 70.09 0.80 7.88AD-58158.1 7.96 98.86 0.76 4.36 AD-58164.1 11.60 43.83 2.06 3.43AD-58170.1 12.28 39.59 0.96 1.36 AD-58176.1 6.89 38.77 1.04 1.33AD-58182.1 18.65 55.78 0.96 0.55 AD-58188.1 5.40 69.39 1.07 0.34AD-58147.1 8.22 106.66 0.77 2.61 AD-58153.1 68.10 104.17 4.44 18.29AD-58159.1 8.76 81.41 1.54 2.79 AD-58190.1 21.94 77.26 2.23 0.76AD-58196.1 15.97 72.43 1.07 5.32 AD-58202.1 11.99 93.83 5.34 2.76AD-58208.1 18.63 52.07 12.88 2.55 AD-58214.1 6.85 94.15 0.51 2.31AD-58220.1 11.50 78.34 3.85 0.77 AD-58226.1 5.77 57.75 1.71 1.13AD-58231.1 7.23 75.67 1.07 0.74 AD-58191.1 35.40 66.17 5.50 4.21AD-58197.1 12.05 67.49 1.70 0.33 AD-58203.1 15.16 66.80 1.46 1.31AD-58209.1 7.58 71.23 3.58 6.28 AD-58233.1 27.01 86.02 0.86 0.42AD-58193.1 15.37 99.85 1.44 0.00 AD-58199.1 21.52 78.39 6.02 16.40AD-58205.1 24.13 78.88 5.46 0.77 AD-58211.1 16.38 32.37 2.61 0.48AD-58217.1 12.23 70.16 0.29 3.44 AD-58223.1 8.51 72.85 3.01 1.79AD-58229.1 5.50 75.93 1.96 0.37 AD-58234.1 46.86 101.94 15.59 0.00AD-58194.1 14.49 107.05 2.47 4.20 AD-58200.1 16.21 61.04 0.96 1.20AD-58206.1 13.25 37.73 2.82 2.03 AD-58236.1 8.29 119.17 1.16 2.92AD-58242.1 12.05 102.69 0.44 4.03 AD-58248.1 62.78 83.41 15.22 3.27AD-58254.1 11.18 100.54 1.59 0.00 AD-58260.1 8.42 71.84 1.10 0.35AD-58266.1 14.05 92.21 1.91 2.26 AD-58272.1 22.63 81.11 1.62 1.59AD-58277.1 70.51 75.67 4.80 0.74 AD-58237.1 28.10 98.56 1.96 5.79AD-58243.1 14.16 86.05 1.11 2.95 AD-58249.1 77.08 96.45 15.14 0.95AD-58255.1 12.27 47.89 2.58 0.00 AD-58279.1 25.78 94.13 5.52 0.46AD-58239.1 22.98 83.45 0.28 4.91 AD-58245.1 89.60 90.93 15.24 0.45AD-58251.1 28.39 86.32 7.29 0.00 AD-58257.1 48.97 64.53 9.10 1.90AD-58263.1 9.14 83.39 1.27 1.63 AD-58269.1 83.84 75.94 15.90 1.12AD-58275.1 10.29 86.32 0.73 0.85 AD-58280.1 72.77 110.04 7.44 3.24AD-58240.1 65.42 75.69 3.82 2.23 AD-58246.1 59.19 65.88 28.95 0.65AD-58252.1 15.35 97.26 1.14 7.62 Mock 76.53 66.57 14.26 4.72 AD-195572.30 82.72 19.54 49.99 Untreated 100.00 100.00 21.68 26.78

TABLE 14 C5 single dose screen in primary mouse hepatocytes withmodified and unmodified iRNAs 1 nM 0.1 nM 1 nM 0.1 nM Duplex ID AVG AVGSTDEV STDEV AD-58143.1 4.51 81.77 3.13 8.75 AD-58149.1 4.65 73.16 3.1420.17 AD-58155.1 65.56 79.74 4.66 9.36 AD-58161.1 16.82 81.11 6.22 7.43AD-58167.1 4.72 77.12 1.17 14.25 AD-58173.1 5.57 76.00 3.14 13.52AD-58179.1 14.55 77.88 1.44 18.40 AD-58185.1 15.69 72.59 8.67 7.81AD-58144.1 8.70 91.49 0.90 7.08 AD-58150.1 12.51 84.01 1.64 8.20AD-58156.1 18.23 97.32 1.47 19.50 AD-58162.1 7.72 78.89 5.19 13.80AD-58190.1 11.86 92.80 2.82 4.41 AD-58196.1 7.27 82.71 1.39 31.81AD-58202.1 10.67 87.11 1.04 35.79 AD-58208.1 32.21 74.39 8.60 27.45AD-58214.1 4.24 67.63 0.45 17.85 AD-58220.1 13.64 96.14 4.56 14.36AD-58226.1 3.83 63.44 1.30 11.94 AD-58231.1 5.95 82.24 2.80 17.36AD-58191.1 14.50 99.50 5.48 5.53 AD-58197.1 16.12 93.09 0.81 3.21AD-58203.1 12.52 104.63 5.98 6.02 AD-58209.1 8.79 59.35 3.05 13.07AD-58233.1 9.50 64.26 5.69 8.70 AD-58193.1 8.88 89.60 3.36 3.08AD-58199.1 13.56 87.14 2.18 6.44 AD-58205.1 46.84 89.13 4.48 17.16AD-58211.1 13.10 111.62 1.10 21.54 AD-58217.1 29.79 117.49 11.85 20.41AD-58223.1 20.53 105.44 1.94 2.98 AD-58229.1 13.76 98.15 1.05 9.03AD-58234.1 12.33 71.34 0.72 4.17 AD-58194.1 14.02 90.60 1.39 15.64AD-58200.1 5.25 90.95 1.37 31.70 AD-58206.1 8.19 109.47 3.99 21.75AD-58236.1 2.07 70.19 0.80 20.59 AD-58242.1 4.76 53.26 1.59 11.56AD-58248.1 62.42 78.23 5.47 25.85 AD-58254.1 16.47 70.22 2.92 21.74AD-58260.1 2.84 75.65 0.38 11.59 AD-58266.1 40.70 89.88 16.05 11.57AD-58272.1 21.42 59.44 13.29 10.98 AD-58277.1 71.72 121.44 16.35 21.16AD-58237.1 11.85 112.68 9.22 12.88 AD-58243.1 10.46 90.64 3.42 4.33AD-58249.1 71.47 113.30 4.30 3.84 AD-58255.1 6.86 78.55 2.22 28.37AD-58279.1 7.15 74.96 2.84 4.72 AD-58239.1 13.64 106.45 1.87 8.25AD-58245.1 68.67 112.08 21.89 7.73 AD-58251.1 47.01 133.20 4.69 7.14AD-58257.1 30.68 87.51 2.87 32.84 AD-58263.1 7.22 83.23 2.55 37.50AD-58269.1 78.90 106.06 5.07 3.04 AD-58275.1 8.92 95.77 1.91 7.14AD-58280.1 16.67 78.47 4.15 6.06 AD-58240.1 71.03 138.54 5.32 10.87AD-58246.1 71.87 89.02 4.95 8.63 AD-58252.1 4.04 56.10 1.23 12.02 Mock66.84 82.81 2.75 17.19 AD-1955 87.44 102.07 3.64 4.08 Untreated 100.00100.00 15.25 18.37

TABLE 15 IC₅₀ data in Hep3B cells with modified and unmodified iRNAsDuplex ID IC₅₀ (pM) STDEV AD-58143.1 36.35 12.26 AD-58149.1 5.735 6.196AD-58161.1 78.12 26.64 AD-58167.1 31.03 18.14 AD-58173.1 29.12 16.53AD-58236.1 52.73 32.02 AD-58242.1 8.859 4.321 AD-58260.1 7.706 5.094AD-58263.1 96.64 47.61

TABLE 16 IC₅₀ data in primary mouse hepatocytes with modified andunmodified iRNAs Duplex ID IC₅₀ (pM) STDEV AD-58260.1 1.015 0.9676AD-58149.1 1.309 1.749 AD-58167.1 1.991 2.477 AD-58242.1 0.5866 1.8AD-58236.1 0.4517 0.06392 AD-58143.1 0.8876 0.1613 AD-58279.1 3.1160.7368 AD-58252.1 7.153 1.021 AD-58173.1 7.144 19.88 AD-58263.1 3.2245.478

Example 3 In Vivo Screening

A subset of seven GalNAC conjugated iRNAs was selected for further invivo evaluation.

C57BL/6 mice (N=3 per group) were injected subcutaneously with 10 mg/kgof GalNAc conjugated duplexes or an equal volume of 1× Dulbecco'sPhosphate-Buffered Saline (DPBS) (Life Technologies, Cat #14040133).Forty-eight hours later, mice were euthanized and the livers weredissected and flash frozen in liquid nitrogen. Livers were ground in a2000 Geno/Grinder (SPEX SamplePrep, Metuchen, N.J.). Approximately 10 mgof liver powder per sample was used for RNA isolation. Samples werefirst homogenized in a TissueLyserII (Qiagen Inc, Valencia, Calif.) andthen RNA was extracted using a RNeasy 96 Universal Tissue Kit (QiagenInc, Cat #74881) following manufacturer's protocol using vacuum/spintechnology. RNA concentration was measured by a NanoDrop 8000 (ThermoScientific, Wilmington, Del.) and was adjusted to 100 ng/μl. cDNA andRT-PCR were performed as described above.

The results of the single dose screen are depicted in FIG. 2. Table 17shows the results of an in vivo single dose screen with the indicatedGalNAC conjugated modified iRNAs. Data are expressed as percent of mRNAremaining relative to DPBS treated mice. The “Experiments” column liststhe number of experiments from which the average was calculated. Thestandard deviation is calculated from all mice in a group across allexperiments analyzed.

TABLE 17 In vivo C5 single dose screen Duplex ID Experiments AVG STDEVAD-58088.2 2 82.66 13.54 AD-58644.1 1 37.79 9.63 AD-58651.1 1 75.33 5.21AD-58099.2 2 71.94 15.45 AD-58641.1 1 20.09 4.09 AD-58648.1 1 48.43 9.07AD-58111.2 3 67.17 13.60 AD-58642.1 2 21.78 5.32 AD-58649.1 1 45.3014.02 AD-58116.2 2 70.16 10.32 AD-58647.1 1 26.77 4.14 AD-58654.1 150.06 27.85 AD-58121.2 2 52.56 13.00 AD-58645.1 1 24.60 1.29 AD-58652.11 52.67 3.87 AD-58123.2 2 65.70 9.60 AD-58643.1 1 23.21 2.41 AD-58650.11 46.75 14.10 AD-58133.2 3 51.98 13.45 AD-58646.1 2 28.67 5.34AD-58653.1 1 43.02 10.61 PBS 3 100.00 9.03

Two of the most efficacious GalNAC conjugated iRNAs were furthermodified to include additional phosphorothioate linkages (Table 18) andthe efficacy of these duplexes was determined in vivo as describedabove. The results of the single dose screen are depicted in FIG. 3 anddemonstrate that the iRNA agents with additional phosphorothiatelinkages are more efficacious than those iRNA agents without or withfewer phosphorothioate linkages.

TABLE 18 Phosphorothioate Modifed GalNAC Conjugated C5 iRNAs SEQ SEQSense ID ID Cross Duplex ID strand Sense sequence NO: AntisenseAntisense sequence NO: Reactivity AD-58642.1 A-119324.1GfsasCfaAfaAfuAfAfCfu 551 A-119325.1 asUfsuAfuAfgUfgAfguu 555HumRheMusRat CfaCfuAfuAfaUfL96 AfuUfuUfgUfcsasa AD-58111.2 A-118316.1GfaCfaAfaAfuAfAfCfuCf 552 A-118317.1 aUfuAfuAfgUfgAfguuAf 556HumRheMusRat aCfuAfuAfaUfL96 uUfuUfgUfcsAfsa AD-58646.1 A-119332.1CfsasGfaUfcAfaAfCfAfc 553 A-119333.1 asCfsuGfaAfaUfuGfugu 557 MusRatAfaUfuUfcAfgUfL96 UfuGfaUfcUfgscsa AD-58133.2 A-118386.1CfaGfaUfcAfaAfCfAfcAf 554 A-118387.1 aCfuGfaAfaUfuGfuguUf 558 MusRataUfuUfcAfgUfL96 uGfaUfcUfgsCfsa

Given the impact of the additional phosphorothioate linkages on thesilencing ability of the iRNA agents described above, the efficacy ofadditional GalNAC conjugated iRNA duplexes including phosphoriothioatelinkages (Table 19) was determined in vivo as described above. Theresults of this single dose screen are depicted in FIG. 4.

The duration of silencing of AD-58642 in vivo was determined byadministering a single 2.5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, or 25 mg/kg dose to rats anddetermining the amount of C5 protein (FIG. 5B) present on day 7 and theactivity of C5 protein (FIG. 5A) present on days 4 and 7. Asdemonstrated in FIG. 5, there is a 50% reduction in the activity of C5protein by Day 4 at a 25 mg/kg dose and at Day 7, a greater than 70%reduction in the activity of C5 protein.

The amount of C5 protein was determined by Western blot analysis ofwhole serum. The activity of C5 protein was determined by a hemolysisassay. Briefly, a fixed dilution of human C5 depleted human serum wasmixed with mouse serum and incubated with antibody-coated sheep redblood cells for 1 hour. The hemoglobin absorbance was measured and the %hemolysis as compared to a reference curve (prepared using a dilutionseries of mouse serum) was calculated.

The efficacy of AD-58642 in vivo was also assayed in mice following asingle subcutaneous injection of 1.25 mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 10mg/kg, and 25 mg/kg of AD-58642. At day 5 C5 mRNA was assayed in liversamples using qPCR, C5 activity was assayed for hemolysis, and theamount of C5 protein was determined by Western blot analysis of wholeserum.

As depicted in FIGS. 6A and 6B, although there is only a minorimprovement (i.e., about 5%) in efficacy of AD-58642 to inhibit C5 mRNAat a dose of 25 mg/kg as compared to a 10 mg/kg dose, there is anaverage of 85% silencing with a 25 mg/kg dose. In addition, there is adose response effect with an IC₅₀ of about 2.5 mg/kg.

FIGS. 7A and 7B and 8 demonstrate that AD-58642 is efficacious fordecreasing the amount of C5 protein (FIGS. 8) and C5 protein activity(FIGS. 7A and 7B).

The duration of silencing of AD-58641 in vivo was also determined bysubcutaneously administering a single 0.625 mg/kg, 1.25 mg/kg, 2.5mg/kg, 5.0 mg/kg, or 10 mg/kg dose of AD-58641 to C57B1/6 (n=3) mice anddetermining the amount of C5 protein present in these animals on days 5and 9 by ELISA. Briefly, serum was collected on day 0, pre-bleed, day 5,and day 9 and the levels of C5 proteins were quantified by ELISA. C5protein levels were normalized to the day 0 pre-bleed level. As depictedin FIG. 9, the results demonstrate that there is a dose dependent potentand durable knock-down of C5 serum protein. (The single dose ED₅₀ was0.6 mg/kg).

Compound AD-58641 was also tested for efficacy in C57Bl/₆ mice using amulti-dosing administration protocol. Mice were subcutaneouslyadministered compound AD-58641 at a 0.625 mg/kg, 1.25 mg/kg, or 2.5mg/kg dose at days 0, 1, 2, and 3. Serum was collected at days 0 and 8as illustrated in FIG. 10 and analyzed for C5 protein levels by ELISA.C5 levels were normalized to the day 0 pre-bleed level. FIG. 10 showsthat multi-dosing of AD-58641 achieves silencing of C5 protein at all ofthe does tested, with a greater than 90% silencing of C5 protein at adose of 2.5 mg/kg.

Compound AD-58641 was further tested for efficacy and to evaluate thecumulative effect of the compound in rats using a repeat administrationprotocol. Wild-type Sprague Dawley rats were subcutaneously injectedwith compound AD-58641 at a 2.5 mg/kg/dose or 5.0 mg/kg/dose twice aweek for 3 weeks (q2w x3). Serum was collected on days 0, 4, 7, 11, 14,18, 25, and 32. Serum hemolytic activity was quantified using ahemolysis assay in which a 1:150 dilution of rat serum was incubatedwith sensitized sheep rat blood cells in GVB++ buffer for 1 hour andhemoglobin release was quantified by measuring absorbance at 415 nm (seeFIG. 11A). The amount of C5 protein present in the samples was alsodetermined by ELISA (FIG. 11B). The results demonstrate a dose dependentpotent and durable decrease in hemolytic activity, achieving about 90%hemolytic activity inhibition.

TABLE 19 Additional Phosphorothioate Modifed GalNAC Conjugated C5 iRNAsSEQ SEQ Sense ID ID Start Cross Duplex ID strand Sense sequence NO:Antisense Antisense sequence NO: position Reactivity PS# AD-58088.2A-118324.1 AfuUfuAfaAfcAfAfCfaAfgUfaCfcUfuUfL96 559 A-118325.1aAfaGfgUfaCfuUfguuGfuUfuAfaAfusCfsu 580 984 HumRheMus 2 AD-58644.1A-119328.1 AfsusUfuAfaAfcAfAfCfaAfgUfaCfcUfuUfL96 560 A-119329.1asAfsaGfgUfaCfuUfguuGfuUfuAfaAfuscsu 581 984 HumRheMus 6 AD-58651.1A-119328.2 AfsusUfuAfaAfcAfAfCfaAfgUfaCfcUfuUfL96 561 A-119339.1asAfsaGfsgUfsaCfsuUfsguuGfsuUfsuAfsa 582 984 HumRheMus 14 AfsuscsuAD-58099.2 A-118312.1 UfgAfcAfaAfaUfAfAfcUfcAfcUfaUfaAfL96 562A-118313.1 uUfaUfaGfuGfaGfuuaUfuUfuGfuCfasAfsu 583 1513 HumRheMusRat 2AD-58641.1 A-119322.1 UfsgsAfcAfaAfaUfAfAfcUfcAfcUfaUfaAfL96 563A-119323.1 usUfsaUfaGfuGfaGfuuaUfuUfuGfuCfasasu 584 1513 HumRheMusRat 6AD-58648.1 A-119322.2 UfsgsAfcAfaAfaUfAfAfcUfcAfcUfaUfaAfL96 564A-119336.1 usUfsaUfsaGfsuGfsaGfsuuaUfsuUfsuGfsu 585 1513 HumRheMusRat 14Cfsasasu AD-58111.2 A-118316.1 GfaCfaAfaAfuAfAfCfuCfaCfuAfuAfaUfL96 565A-118317.1 aUfuAfuAfgUfgAfguuAfuUfuUfgUfcsAfsa 586 1514 HumRheMusRat 2AD-58642.1 A-119324.1 GfsasCfaAfaAfuAfAfCfuCfaCfuAfuAfaUfL96 566A-119325.1 asUfsuAfuAfgUfgAfguuAfuUfuUfgUfcsasa 587 1514 HumRheMusRat 6AD-58649.1 A-119324.2 GfsasCfaAfaAfuAfAfCfuCfaCfuAfuAfaUfL96 567A-119337.1 asUfsuAfsuAfsgUfsgAfsguuAfsuUfsuUfsg 588 1514 HumRheMusRat 14Ufscsasa AD-58116.2 A-118396.1 GfuUfcCfgGfaUfAfUfuUfgAfaCfuUfuUfL96 568A-118397.1 aAfaAfgUfuCfaAfauaUfcCfgGfaAfcsCfsg 589 4502 MusRat 2AD-58647.1 A-119334.1 GfsusUfcCfgGfaUfAfUfuUfgAfaCfuUfuUfL96 569A-119335.1 asAfsaAfgUfuCfaAfauaUfcCfgGfaAfcscsg 590 4502 MusRat 6AD-58654.1 A-119334.2 GfsusUfcCfgGfaUfAfUfuUfgAfaCfuUfuUfL96 570A-119342.1 asAfsaAfsgUfsuCfsaAfsauaUfscCfsgGfsa 591 4502 MusRat 14Afscscsg AD-58121.2 A-118382.1 UfgCfaGfaUfcAfAfAfcAfcAfaUfuUfcAfL96 571A-118383.1 uGfaAfaUfuGfuGfuuuGfaUfcUfgCfasGfsa 592 4945 MusRat 2AD-58645.1 A-119330.1 UfsgsCfaGfaUfcAfAfAfcAfcAfaUfuUfcAfL96 572A-119331.1 usGfsaAfaUfuGfuGfuuuGfaUfcUfgCfasgsa 593 4945 MusRat 6AD-58652.1 A-119330.2 UfsgsCfaGfaUfcAfAfAfcAfcAfaUfuUfcAfL96 573A-119340.1 usGfsaAfsaUfsuGfsuGfsuuuGfsaUfscUfsg 594 4945 MusRat 14Cfsasgsa AD-58123.2 A-118320.1 AfaGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuUfaUfaAfuAfL96 574A-118321.1 uAfuUfaUfaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcUfusUfsu 595 786 HumRheMus 2AD-58643.1 A-119326.1 AfsasGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuUfaUfaAfuAfL96 575A-119327.1 usAfsuUfaUfaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcUfususu 596 786 HumRheMus 6AD-58650.1 A-119326.2 AfsasGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuUfaUfaAfuAfL96 576A-119338.1 usAfsuUfsaUfsaAfsaAfsauaUfscUfsuGfsc 597 786 HumRheMus 14Ufsususu AD-58133.2 A-118386.1 CfaGfaUfcAfaAfCfAfcAfaUfuUfcAfgUfL96 577A-118387.1 aCfuGfaAfaUfuGfuguUfuGfaUfcUfgsCfsa 598 4947 MusRat 2AD-58646.1 A-119332.1 CfsasGfaUfcAfaAfCfAfcAfaUfuticAfgUfL96 578A-119333.1 asCfsuGfaAfaUfuGfugulffuGfaUfcUfgscs 599 4947 MusRat 6 aAD-58653.1 A-119332.2 CfsasGfaUfcAfaAfCfAfcAfaUfuticAfgUfL96 579A-119341.1 asCfsuGfsaAfsaUfsuGfsuguUfsuGfsaUfsc 600 4947 MusRat 14Ufsgscsa

Example 4 Design, Synthesis, and in Vitro Screening of Additional siRNAssiRNA Design

C5 duplexes, 19 nucleotides long for both the sense and antisensestrand, were designed using the human C5 mRNA sequence set forth inGenBank Accession No. NM_001735.2. Five-hundred and sixty-nine duplexeswere initially identified that did not contain repeats longer than 7nucleotides, spanning substantially the entire 5480 nucleotidetranscript. All 569 duplexes are then scored for predicted efficacyaccording to a linear model that evaluates the nucleotide pair at eachduplex position, and the dose and cell line to be used for screening.The duplexes are also matched against all transcripts in the humanRefSeq collection using a custom brute force algorithm, and scored forlowest numbers of mismatches (per strand) to transcripts other than C5.Duplexes to be synthesized and screened are then selected from the 569,according to the following scheme: Beginning at the 5′ end of thetranscript, a duplex is selected within a “window” of every 10±2nucleotides that

1) had the highest predicted efficacy,

2) had at least one mismatch in both strands to all transcripts otherthan SERPINC1,

3) had not already been synthesized and screened as part of other duplexsets. If no duplex is identified within a given window that satisfiedall criteria, that window was skipped.

A detailed list of the 569 C5 sense and antisense strand sequences isshown in Table 20.

The in vitro efficacy of duplexes comprising the sense and antisensesequences listed in Table 20 is determined using the following methods.

Cell Culture and Transfections

HepG2 cells (ATCC, Manassas, Va.) are grown to near confluence at 37° C.in an atmosphere of 5% CO₂ in Eagle's Minimum Essential Medium (ATCC)supplemented with 10% FBS, streptomycin, and glutamine (ATCC) beforebeing released from the plate by trypsinization. Transfection is carriedout by adding 14.8 μl of Opti-MEM plus 0.2 μl of Lipofectamine RNAiMaxper well (Invitrogen, Carlsbad Calif. cat #13778-150) to 5 μl of each ofthe 164 siRNA duplexes to an individual well in a 96-well plate. Themixture is then incubated at room temperature for 15 minutes. 80 μl ofcomplete growth media without antibiotic containing ˜2.5×10⁴ HepG2 cellsis then added to the siRNA mixture. Cells are incubated for 24 hoursprior to RNA purification. Experiments are performed at 20 nM andincluded naive cells and cells transfected with AD-1955, a luciferasetargeting siRNA as negative controls.

Total RNA Isolation Using DYNABEADS mRNA Isolation Kit (Invitrogen, Part#: 610-12)

Cells are harvested and lysed in 150 μl of Lysis/Binding Buffer thenmixed for 5 minute at 700 rpm on a platform shaker (the mixing speed wasthe same throughout the process). Ten microliters of magnetic beads and80 μl Lysis/Binding Buffer mixture are added to a round bottom plate andmixed for 1 minute. Magnetic beads are captured using magnetic stand andthe supernatant is removed without disturbing the beads. After removingsupernatant, the lysed cells are added to the remaining beads and mixedfor 5 minutes. After removing supernatant, magnetic beads are washed 2times with 150 μl Wash Buffer A and mixed for 1 minute. Beads arecaptured again and supernatant removed. Beads are then washed with 150μl Wash Buffer B, captured and supernatant is removed. Beads are nextwashed with 150 μl Elution Buffer, captured and supernatant removed.Beads are allowed to dry for 2 minutes. After drying, 50 μl of ElutionBuffer is added and mixed for 5 minutes at 70° C. Beads are captured onmagnet for 5 minutes. Forty μl of supernatant, containg the isolated RNAis removed and added to another 96 well plate.

cDNA Synthesis Using ABI High Capacity cDNA Reverse Transcription Kit(Applied Biosystems, Foster City, Calif., Cat #4368813)

A master mix of 2 μl 10× Buffer, 0.8 μl 25× dNTPs, 2 μl Random primers,1 μl Reverse Transcriptase, 1 μl RNase inhibitor and 3.2 μl of H2O perreaction is added into 10 μl total RNA. cDNA is generated using aBio-Rad C-1000 or S-1000 thermal cycler (Hercules, Calif.) through thefollowing steps: 25° C. 10 min, 37° C. 120 min, 85° C. 5 sec, 4° C.hold.

Real Time PCR

Two μl of cDNA is added to a master mix containing 0.5 μl human GAPDHTaqMan Probe (Applied Biosystems Cat #4326317E), 0.5 μl human SERPINC1TaqMan probe (Applied Biosystems cat #Hs00892758_m1) and 5 μlLightcycler 480 probe master mix (Roche Cat #04887301001) per well in a384-well plate (Roche cat #04887301001). Real time PCR is performed inan LC480 Real Time PCR machine (Roche).

To calculate relative fold change, real time data is analyzed using theΔΔCt method and normalized to assays performed with cells transfectedwith 20 nM AD-1955.

TABLE 20 Additional C5 unmodified sense and antisense strand sequencesPosition in SEQ ID SEQ ID Oligo Name NM_001735.2 Sense Sequence NO:Antisense Sequence NO: NM_001735.2_3-21_s  3-21 UAUCCGUGGUUUCCUGCUA 601UAGCAGGAAACCACGGAUA 1170 NM_001735.2_10-28_s 10-28 GGUUUCCUGCUACCUCCAA602 UUGGAGGUAGCAGGAAACC 1171 NM_001735.2_22-40_s 22-40CCUCCAACCAUGGGCCUUU 603 AAAGGCCCAUGGUUGGAGG 1172 NM_001735.2_33-51_s33-51 GGGCCUUUUGGGAAUACUU 604 AAGUAUUCCCAAAAGGCCC 1173NM_001735.2_43-61_s 43-61 GGAAUACUUUGUUUUUUAA 605 UUAAAAAACAAAGUAUUCC1174 NM_001735.2_49-67_s 49-67 CUUUGUUUUUUAAUCUUCC 606GGAAGAUUAAAAAACAAAG 1175 NM_001735.2_63-81_s 63-81 CUUCCUGGGGAAAACCUGG607 CCAGGUUUUCCCCAGGAAG 1176 NM_001735.2_71-89_s 71-89GGAAAACCUGGGGACAGGA 608 UCCUGUCCCCAGGUUUUCC 1177 NM_001735.2_81-99_s81-99 GGGACAGGAGCAAACAUAU 609 AUAUGUUUGCUCCUGUCCC 1178NM_001735.2_91-109_s  91-109 CAAACAUAUGUCAUUUCAG 610 CUGAAAUGACAUAUGUUUG1179 NM_001735.2_102-120_s 102-120 CAUUUCAGCACCAAAAAUA 611UAUUUUUGGUGCUGAAAUG 1180 NM_001735.2_109-127_s 109-127GCACCAAAAAUAUUCCGUG 612 CACGGAAUAUUUUUGGUGC 1181 NM_001735.2_123-141_s123-141 CCGUGUUGGAGCAUCUGAA 613 UUCAGAUGCUCCAACACGG 1182NM_001735.2_130-148_s 130-148 GGAGCAUCUGAAAAUAUUG 614CAAUAUUUUCAGAUGCUCC 1183 NM_001735.2_139-157_s 139157GAAAAUAUUGUGAUUCAAG 615 CUUGAAUCACAAUAUUUUC 1184 NM_001735.2_150-168_s150-168 GAUUCAAGUUUAUGGAUAC 616 GUAUCCAUAAACUUGAAUC 1185NM_001735.2_163-181_s 163-181 GGAUACACUGAAGCAUUUG 617CAAAUGCUUCAGUGUAUCC 1186 NM_001735.2_172-190_s 172-190GAAGCAUUUGAUGCAACAA 618 UUGUUGCAUCAAAUGCUUC 1187 NM_001735.2_183-201_s183-201 UGCAACAAUCUCUAUUAAA 619 UUUAAUAGAGAUUGUUGCA 1188NM_001735.2_189-207_s 189-207 AAUCUCUAUUAAAAGUUAU 620AUAACUUUUAAUAGAGAUU 1189 NM_001735.2_201-219_s 201-219AAGUUAUCCUGAUAAAAAA 621 UUUUUUAUCAGGAUAACUU 1190 NM_001735.2_209-227_s209-227 CUGAUAAAAAAUUUAGUUA 622 UAACUAAAUUUUUUAUCAG 1191NM_001735.2_221-239_s 221-239 UUAGUUACUCCUCAGGCCA 623UGGCCUGAGGAGUAACUAA 1192 NM_001735.2_230-248_s 230-248CCUCAGGCCAUGUUCAUUU 624 AAAUGAACAUGGCCUGAGG 1193 NM_001735.2_242-260_s242-260 UUCAUUUAUCCUCAGAGAA 625 UUCUCUGAGGAUAAAUGAA 1194NM_001735.2_252-270_s 252-270 CUCAGAGAAUAAAUUCCAA 626UUGGAAUUUAUUCUCUGAG 1195 NM_001735.2_259-277_s 259-277AAUAAAUUCCAAAACUCUG 627 CAGAGUUUUGGAAUUUAUU 1196 NM_001735.2_273-291_s273-291 CUCUGCAAUCUUAACAAUA 628 UAUUGUUAAGAUUGCAGAG 1197NM_001735.2_282-300_s 282-300 CUUAACAAUACAACCAAAA 629UUUUGGUUGUAUUGUUAAG 1198 NM_001735.2_292-310_s 292-310CAACCAAAACAAUUGCCUG 630 CAGGCAAUUGUUUUGGUUG 1199 NM_001735.2_301-319_s301-319 CAAUUGCCUGGAGGACAAA 631 UUUGUCCUCCAGGCAAUUG 1200NM_001735.2_313-331_s 313-331 GGACAAAACCCAGUUUCUU 632AAGAAACUGGGUUUUGUCC 1201 NM_001735.2_322-340_s 322-340CCAGUUUCUUAUGUGUAUU 633 AAUACACAUAAGAAACUGG 1202 NM_001735.2_332-350_s332-350 AUGUGUAUUUGGAAGUUGU 634 ACAACUUCCAAAUACACAU 1203NM_001735.2_342-360_s 342-360 GGAAGUUGUAUCAAAGCAU 635AUGCUUUGAUACAACUUCC 1204 NM_001735.2_349-367_s 349-367GUAUCAAAGCAUUUUUCAA 636 UUGAAAAAUGCUUUGAUAC 1205 NM_001735.2_361-379_s361-379 UUUUCAAAAUCAAAAAGAA 637 UUCUUUUUGAUUUUGAAAA 1206NM_001735.2_371-389_s 371-389 CAAAAAGAAUGCCAAUAAC 638GUUAUUGGCAUUCUUUUUG 1207 NM_001735.2_381-399_s 381-399GCCAAUAACCUAUGACAAU 639 AUUGUCAUAGGUUAUUGGC 1208 NM_001735.2_389-407_s389-407 CCUAUGACAAUGGAUUUCU 640 AGAAAUCCAUUGUCAUAGG 1209NM_001735.2_399-417_s 399-417 UGGAUUUCUCUUCAUUCAU 641AUGAAUGAAGAGAAAUCCA 1210 NM_001735.2_411-429_s 411-429CAUUCAUACAGACAAACCU 642 AGGUUUGUCUGUAUGAAUG 1211 NM_001735.2_419-437_s419-437 CAGACAAACCUGUUUAUAC 643 GUAUAAACAGGUUUGUCUG 1212NM_001735.2_430-448_s 430-448 GUUUAUACUCCAGACCAGU 644ACUGGUCUGGAGUAUAAAC 1213 NM_001735.2_441-459_s 441-459AGACCAGUCAGUAAAAGUU 645 AACUUUUACUGACUGGUCU 1214 NM_001735.2_450-468_s450-468 AGUAAAAGUUAGAGUUUAU 646 AUAAACUCUAACUUUUACU 1215NM_001735.2_460-478_s 460-478 AGAGUUUAUUCGUUGAAUG 647CAUUCAACGAAUAAACUCU 1216 NM_001735.2_470-488_s 470-488CGUUGAAUGACGACUUGAA 648 UUCAAGUCGUCAUUCAACG 1217 NM_001735.2_483-501_s483-501 CUUGAAGCCAGCCAAAAGA 649 UCUUUUGGCUGGCUUCAAG 1218NM_001735.2_490-508_s 490-508 CCAGCCAAAAGAGAAACUG 650CAGUUUCUCUUUUGGCUGG 1219 NM_001735.2_503-521_s 503-521AAACUGUCUUAACUUUCAU 651 AUGAAAGUUAAGACAGUUU 1220 NM_001735.2_513-531_s513-531 AACUUUCAUAGAUCCUGAA 652 UUCAGGAUCUAUGAAAGUU 1221NM_001735.2_519-537_s 519-537 CAUAGAUCCUGAAGGAUCA 653UGAUCCUUCAGGAUCUAUG 1222 NM_001735.2_529-547_s 529-547GAAGGAUCAGAAGUUGACA 654 UGUCAACUUCUGAUCCUUC 1223 NM_001735.2_543-561_s543-561 UGACAUGGUAGAAGAAAUU 655 AAUUUCUUCUACCAUGUCA 1224NM_001735.2_553-571_s 553-571 GAAGAAAUUGAUCAUAUUG 656CAAUAUGAUCAAUUUCUUC 1225 NM_001735.2_562-580_s 562-580GAUCAUAUUGGAAUUAUCU 657 AGAUAAUUCCAAUAUGAUC 1226 NM_001735.2_571-589_s571-589 GGAAUUAUCUCUUUUCCUG 658 CAGGAAAAGAGAUAAUUCC 1227NM_001735.2_579-597_s 579-597 CUCUUUUCCUGACUUCAAG 659CUUGAAGUCAGGAAAAGAG 1228 NM_001735.2_590-608_s 590-608ACUUCAAGAUUCCGUCUAA 660 UUAGACGGAAUCUUGAAGU 1229 NM_001735.2_601-619_s601-619 CCGUCUAAUCCUAGAUAUG 661 CAUAUCUAGGAUUAGACGG 1230NM_001735.2_610-628_s 610-628 CCUAGAUAUGGUAUGUGGA 662UCCACAUACCAUAUCUAGG 1231 NM_001735.2_623-641_s 623-641UGUGGACGAUCAAGGCUAA 663 UUAGCCUUGAUCGUCCACA 1232 NM_001735.2_629-647_s629-647 CGAUCAAGGCUAAAUAUAA 664 UUAUAUUUAGCCUUGAUCG 1233NM_001735.2_642-660_s 642-660 AUAUAAAGAGGACUUUUCA 665UGAAAAGUCCUCUUUAUAU 1234 NM_001735.2_649-667_s 649-667GAGGACUUUUCAACAACUG 666 CAGUUGUUGAAAAGUCCUC 1235 NM_001735.2_662-680_s662-680 CAACUGGAACCGCAUAUUU 667 AAAUAUGCGGUUCCAGUUG 1236NM_001735.2_672-690_s 672-690 CGCAUAUUUUGAAGUUAAA 668UUUAACUUCAAAAUAUGCG 1237 NM_001735.2_683-701_s 683-701AAGUUAAAGAAUAUGUCUU 669 AAGACAUAUUCUUUAACUU 1238 NM_001735.2_691-709_s691-709 GAAUAUGUCUUGCCACAUU 670 AAUGUGGCAAGACAUAUUC 1239NM_001735.2_703-721_s 703-721 CCACAUUUUUCUGUCUCAA 671UUGAGACAGAAAAAUGUGG 1240 NM_001735.2_713-731_s 713-731CUGUCUCAAUCGAGCCAGA 672 UCUGGCUCGAUUGAGACAG 1241 NM_001735.2_719-737_s719-737 CAAUCGAGCCAGAAUAUAA 673 UUAUAUUCUGGCUCGAUUG 1242NM_001735.2_730-748_s 730-748 GAAUAUAAUUUCAUUGGUU 674AACCAAUGAAAUUAUAUUC 1243 NM_001735.2_742-760_s 742-760AUUGGUUACAAGAACUUUA 675 UAAAGUUCUUGUAACCAAU 1244 NM_001735.2_752-770_s752-770 AGAACUUUAAGAAUUUUGA 676 UCAAAAUUCUUAAAGUUCU 1245NM_001735.2_762-780_s 762-780 GAAUUUUGAAAUUACUAUA 677UAUAGUAAUUUCAAAAUUC 1246 NM_001735.2_769-787_s 769-787GAAAUUACUAUAAAAGCAA 678 UUGCUUUUAUAGUAAUUUC 1247 NM_001735.2_781-799_s781-799 AAAGCAAGAUAUUUUUAUA 679 UAUAAAAAUAUCUUGCUUU 1248NM_001735.2_789-807_s 789-807 AUAUUUUUAUAAUAAAGUA 680UACUUUAUUAUAAAAAUAU 1249 NM_001735.2_803-821_s 803-821AAGUAGUCACUGAGGCUGA 681 UCAGCCUCAGUGACUACUU 1250 NM_001735.2_810-828_s810-828 CACUGAGGCUGACGUUUAU 682 AUAAACGUCAGCCUCAGUG 1251NM_001735.2_822-840_s 822-840 CGUUUAUAUCACAUUUGGA 683UCCAAAUGUGAUAUAAACG 1252 NM_001735.2_831-849_s 831-849CACAUUUGGAAUAAGAGAA 684 UUCUCUUAUUCCAAAUGUG 1253 NM_001735.2_840-858_s840-858 AAUAAGAGAAGACUUAAAA 685 UUUUAAGUCUUCUCUUAUU 1254NM_001735.2_852-870_s 852-870 CUUAAAAGAUGAUCAAAAA 686UUUUUGAUCAUCUUUUAAG 1255 NM_001735.2_859-877_s 859-877GAUGAUCAAAAAGAAAUGA 687 UCAUUUCUUUUUGAUCAUC 1256 NM_001735.2_872-890_s872-890 AAAUGAUGCAAACAGCAAU 688 AUUGCUGUUUGCAUCAUUU 1257NM_001735.2_883-901_s 883-901 ACAGCAAUGCAAAACACAA 689UUGUGUUUUGCAUUGCUGU 1258 NM_001735.2_893-911_s 893-911AAAACACAAUGUUGAUAAA 690 UUUAUCAACAUUGUGUUUU 1259 NM_001735.2_899-917_s899-917 CAAUGUUGAUAAAUGGAAU 691 AUUCCAUUUAUCAACAUUG 1260NM_001735.2_913-931_s 913-931 GGAAUUGCUCAAGUCACAU 692AUGUGACUUGAGCAAUUCC 1261 NM_001735.2_919-937_s 919-937GCUCAAGUCACAUUUGAUU 693 AAUCAAAUGUGACUUGAGC 1262 NM_001735.2_930-948_s930-948 AUUUGAUUCUGAAACAGCA 694 UGCUGUUUCAGAAUCAAAU 1263NM_001735.2_939-957_s 939-957 UGAAACAGCAGUCAAAGAA 695UUCUUUGACUGCUGUUUCA 1264 NM_001735.2_951-969_s 951-969CAAAGAACUGUCAUACUAC 696 GUAGUAUGACAGUUCUUUG 1265 NM_001735.2_962-980_s962-980 CAUACUACAGUUUAGAAGA 697 UCUUCUAAACUGUAGUAUG 1266NM_001735.2_969-987_s 969-987 CAGUUUAGAAGAUUUAAAC 698GUUUAAAUCUUCUAAACUG 1267 NM_001735.2_983-1001_s  983-1001UAAACAACAAGUACCUUUA 699 UAAAGGUACUUGUUGUUUA 1268 NM_001735.2_990-1008_s 990-1008 CAAGUACCUUUAUAUUGCU 700 AGCAAUAUAAAGGUACUUG 1269NM_001735.2_1002-1020_s 1002-1020 UAUUGCUGUAACAGUCAUA 701UAUGACUGUUACAGCAAUA 1270 NM_001735.2_1011-1029_s 1011-1029AACAGUCAUAGAGUCUACA 702 UGUAGACUCUAUGACUGUU 1271 NM_001735.2_1020-1038_s1020-1038 AGAGUCUACAGGUGGAUUU 703 AAAUCCACCUGUAGACUCU 1272NM_001735.2_1033-1051_s 1033-1051 GGAUUUUCUGAAGAGGCAG 704CUGCCUCUUCAGAAAAUCC 1273 NM_001735.2_1042-1060_s 1042-1060GAAGAGGCAGAAAUACCUG 705 CAGGUAUUUCUGCCUCUUC 1274 NM_001735.2_1050-1068_s1050-1068 AGAAAUACCUGGCAUCAAA 706 UUUGAUGCCAGGUAUUUCU 1275NM_001735.2_1061-1079_s 1061-1079 GCAUCAAAUAUGUCCUCUC 707GAGAGGACAUAUUUGAUGC 1276 NM_001735.2_1071-1089_s 1071-1089UGUCCUCUCUCCCUACAAA 708 UUUGUAGGGAGAGAGGACA 1277 NM_001735.2_1092-1110_s1092-1110 GAAUUUGGUUGCUACUCCU 709 AGGAGUAGCAACCAAAUUC 1278NM_001735.2_1102-1120_s 1102-1120 GCUACUCCUCUUUUCCUGA 710UCAGGAAAAGAGGAGUAGC 1279 NM_001735.2_1109-1127_s 1109-1127CUCUUUUCCUGAAGCCUGG 711 CCAGGCUUCAGGAAAAGAG 1280 NM_001735.2_1123-1141_s1123-1141 CCUGGGAUUCCAUAUCCCA 712 UGGGAUAUGGAAUCCCAGG 1281NM_001735.2_1133-1151_s 1133-1151 CAUAUCCCAUCAAGGUGCA 713UGCACCUUGAUGGGAUAUG 1282 NM_001735.2_1139-1157_s 1139-1157CCAUCAAGGUGCAGGUUAA 714 UUAACCUGCACCUUGAUGG 1283 NM_001735.2_1150-1168_s1150-1168 CAGGUUAAAGAUUCGCUUG 715 CAAGCGAAUCUUUAACCUG 1284NM_001735.2_1161-1179_s 1161-1179 UUCGCUUGACCAGUUGGUA 716UACCAACUGGUCAAGCGAA 1285 NM_001735.2_1170-1188_s 1170-1188CCAGUUGGUAGGAGGAGUC 717 GACUCCUCCUACCAACUGG 1286 NM_001735.2_1180-1198_s1180-1198 GGAGGAGUCCCAGUAACAC 718 GUGUUACUGGGACUCCUCC 1287NM_001735.2_1190-1208_s 1190-1208 CAGUAACACUGAAUGCACA 719UGUGCAUUCAGUGUUACUG 1288 NM_001735.2_1200-1218_s 1200-1218GAAUGCACAAACAAUUGAU 720 AUCAAUUGUUUGUGCAUUC 1289 NM_001735.2_1209-1227_s1209-1227 AACAAUUGAUGUAAACCAA 721 UUGGUUUACAUCAAUUGUU 1290NM_001735.2_1220-1238_s 1220-1238 UAAACCAAGAGACAUCUGA 722UCAGAUGUCUCUUGGUUUA 1291 NM_001735.2_1232-1250_s 1232-1250CAUCUGACUUGGAUCCAAG 723 CUUGGAUCCAAGUCAGAUG 1292 NM_001735.2_1243-1261_s1243-1261 GAUCCAAGCAAAAGUGUAA 724 UUACACUUUUGCUUGGAUC 1293NM_001735.2_1251-1269_s 1251-1269 CAAAAGUGUAACACGUGUU 725AACACGUGUUACACUUUUG 1294 NM_001735.2_1260-1278_s 1260-1278AACACGUGUUGAUGAUGGA 726 UCCAUCAUCAACACGUGUU 1295 NM_001735.2_1272-1290_s1272-1290 UGAUGGAGUAGCUUCCUUU 727 AAAGGAAGCUACUCCAUCA 1296NM_001735.2_1279-1297_s 1279-1297 GUAGCUUCCUUUGUGCUUA 728UAAGCACAAAGGAAGCUAC 1297 NM_001735.2_1293-1311_s 1293-1311GCUUAAUCUCCCAUCUGGA 729 UCCAGAUGGGAGAUUAAGC 1298 NM_001735.2_1303-1321_s1303-1321 CCAUCUGGAGUGACGGUGC 730 GCACCGUCACUCCAGAUGG 1299NM_001735.2_1313-1331_s 1313-1331 UGACGGUGCUGGAGUUUAA 731UUAAACUCCAGCACCGUCA 1300 NM_001735.2_1320-1338_s 1320-1338GCUGGAGUUUAAUGUCAAA 732 UUUGACAUUAAACUCCAGC 1301 NM_001735.2_1332-1350_s1332-1350 UGUCAAAACUGAUGCUCCA 733 UGGAGCAUCAGUUUUGACA 1302NM_001735.2_1342-1360_s 1342-1360 GAUGCUCCAGAUCUUCCAG 734CUGGAAGAUCUGGAGCAUC 1303 NM_001735.2_1349-1367_s 1349-1367CAGAUCUUCCAGAAGAAAA 735 UUUUCUUCUGGAAGAUCUG 1304 NM_001735.2_1362-1380_s1362-1380 AGAAAAUCAGGCCAGGGAA 736 UUCCCUGGCCUGAUUUUCU 1305NM_001735.2_1371-1389_s 1371-1389 GGCCAGGGAAGGUUACCGA 737UCGGUAACCUUCCCUGGCC 1306 NM_001735.2_1382-1400_s 1382-1400GUUACCGAGCAAUAGCAUA 738 UAUGCUAUUGCUCGGUAAC 1307 NM_001735.2_1393-1411_s1393-1411 AUAGCAUACUCAUCUCUCA 739 UGAGAGAUGAGUAUGCUAU 1308NM_001735.2_1399-1417_s 1399-1471 UACUCAUCUCUCAGCCAAA 740UUUGGCUGAGAGAUGAGUA 1309 NM_001735.2_1412-1430_s 1412-1430GCCAAAGUUACCUUUAUAU 741 AUAUAAAGGUAACUUUGGC 1310 NM_001735.2_1422-1440_s1422-1440 CCUUUAUAUUGAUUGGACU 742 AGUCCAAUCAAUAUAAAGG 1311NM_001735.2_1432-1450_s 1432-1450 GAUUGGACUGAUAACCAUA 743UAUGGUUAUCAGUCCAAUC 1312 NM_001735.2_1439-1457_s 1439-1457CUGAUAACCAUAAGGCUUU 744 AAAGCCUUAUGGUUAUCAG 1313 NM_001735.2_1451-1469_s1451-1469 AGGCUUUGCUAGUGGGAGA 745 UCUCCCACUAGCAAAGCCU 1314NM_001735.2_1462-1480_s 1462-1480 GUGGGAGAACAUCUGAAUA 746UAUUCAGAUGUUCUCCCAC 1315 NM_001735.2_1471-1489_s 1471-1489CAUCUGAAUAUUAUUGUUA 747 UAACAAUAAUAUUCAGAUG 1316 NM_001735.2_1479-1497_s1479-1497 UAUUAUUGUUACCCCCAAA 748 UUUGGGGGUAACAAUAAUA 1317NM_001735.2_1492-1510_s 1492-1510 CCCAAAAGCCCAUAUAUUG 749CAAUAUAUGGGCUUUUGGG 1318 NM_001735.2_1493-1511_s 1493-1511CCAAAAGCCCAUAUAUUGA 750 UCAAUAUAUGGGCUUUUGG 1319 NM_001735.2_1494-1512_s1494-1512 CAAAAGCCCAUAUAUUGAC 751 GUCAAUAUAUGGGCUUUUG 1320NM_001735.2_1495-1513_s 1495-1513 AAAAGCCCAUAUAUUGACA 752UGUCAAUAUAUGGGCUUUU 1321 NM_001735.2_1496-1514_s 1496-1514AAAGCCCAUAUAUUGACAA 753 UUGUCAAUAUAUGGGCUUU 1322 NM_001735.2_1497-1515_s1497-1515 AAGCCCAUAUAUUGACAAA 754 UUUGUCAAUAUAUGGGCUU 1323NM_001735.2_1498-1516_s 1498-1516 AGCCCAUAUAUUGACAAAA 755UUUUGUCAAUAUAUGGGCU 1324 NM_001735.2_1499-1517_s 1499-1517GCCCAUAUAUUGACAAAAU 756 AUUUUGUCAAUAUAUGGGC 1325 NM_001735.2_1500-1518_s1500-1518 CCCAUAUAUUGACAAAAUA 757 UAUUUUGUCAAUAUAUGGG 1326NM_001735.2_1501-1519_s 1501-1519 CCAUAUAUUGACAAAAUAA 758UUAUUUUGUCAAUAUAUGG 1327 NM_001735.2_1502-1520_s 1502-1520CAUAUAUUGACAAAAUAAC 759 GUUAUUUUGUCAAUAUAUG 1328 NM_001735.2_1503-1521_s1503-1521 AUAUAUUGACAAAAUAACU 760 AGUUAUUUUGUCAAUAUAU 1329NM_001735.2_1504-1522_s 1504-1522 UAUAUUGACAAAAUAACUC 761GAGUUAUUUUGUCAAUAUA 1330 NM_001735.2_1505-1523_s 1505-1523AUAUUGACAAAAUAACUCA 762 UGAGUUAUUUUGUCAAUAU 1331 NM_001735.2_1506-1524_s1506-1524 UAUUGACAAAAUAACUCAC 763 GUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAAUA 1332NM_001735.2_1507-1525_s 1507-1525 AUUGACAAAAUAACUCACU 764AGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAAU 1333 NM_001735.2_1508-1526_s 1508-1526UUGACAAAAUAACUCACUA 765 UAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAA 1334 NM_001735.2_1509-1527_s1509-1527 UGACAAAAUAACUCACUAU 766 AUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCA 1335NM_001735.2_1510-1528_s 1510-1528 GACAAAAUAACUCACUAUA 767UAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUC 1336 NM_001735.2_1513-1531_s 1513-1531AAAAUAACUCACUAUAAUU 768 AAUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUU 1337 NM_001735.2_1514-1532_s1514-1532 AAAUAACUCACUAUAAUUA 769 UAAUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUU 1338NM_001735.2_1515-1533_s 1515-1533 AAUAACUCACUAUAAUUAC 770GUAAUUAUAGUGAGUUAUU 1339 NM_001735.2_1516-1534_s 1516-1534AUAACUCACUAUAAUUACU 771 AGUAAUUAUAGUGAGUUAU 1340 NM_001735.2_1518-1536_s1518-1536 AACUCACUAUAAUUACUUG 772 CAAGUAAUUAUAGUGAGUU 1341NM_001735.2_1519-1537_s 1519-1537 ACUCACUAUAAUUACUUGA 773UCAAGUAAUUAUAGUGAGU 1342 NM_001735.2_1520-1538_s 1520-1538CUCACUAUAAUUACUUGAU 774 AUCAAGUAAUUAUAGUGAG 1343 NM_001735.2_1521-1539_s1521-1539 UCACUAUAAUUACUUGAUU 775 AAUCAAGUAAUUAUAGUGA 1344NM_001735.2_1523-1541_s 1523-1541 ACUAUAAUUACUUGAUUUU 776AAAAUCAAGUAAUUAUAGU 1345 NM_001735.2_1524-1542_s 1524-1542CUAUAAUUACUUGAUUUUA 777 UAAAAUCAAGUAAUUAUAG 1346 NM_001735.2_1525-1543_s1525-1543 UAUAAUUACUUGAUUUUAU 778 AUAAAAUCAAGUAAUUAUA 1347NM_001735.2_1526-1544_s 1526-1544 AUAAUUACUUGAUUUUAUC 779GAUAAAAUCAAGUAAUUAU 1348 NM_001735.2_1527-1545_s 1527-1545UAAUUACUUGAUUUUAUCC 780 GGAUAAAAUCAAGUAAUUA 1349 NM_001735.2_1528-1546_s1528-1546 AAUUACUUGAUUUUAUCCA 781 UGGAUAAAAUCAAGUAAUU 1350NM_001735.2_1529-1547_s 1529-1547 AUUACUUGAUUUUAUCCAA 782UUGGAUAAAAUCAAGUAAU 1351 NM_001735.2_1540-1558_s 1540-1558UUAUCCAAGGGCAAAAUUA 783 UAAUUUUGCCCUUGGAUAA 1352 NM_001735.2_1550-1568_s1550-1568 GCAAAAUUAUCCACUUUGG 784 CCAAAGUGGAUAAUUUUGC 1353NM_001735.2_1561-1579_s 1561-1579 CACUUUGGCACGAGGGAGA 785UCUCCCUCGUGCCAAAGUG 1354 NM_001735.2_1571-1589_s 1571-1589CGAGGGAGAAAUUUUCAGA 786 UCUGAAAAUUUCUCCCUCG 1355 NM_001735.2_1581-1599_s1581-1599 AUUUUCAGAUGCAUCUUAU 787 AUAAGAUGCAUCUGAAAAU 1356NM_001735.2_1591-1609_s 1591-1609 GCAUCUUAUCAAAGUAUAA 788UUAUACUUUGAUAAGAUGC 1357 NM_001735.2_1600-1618_s 1600-1618CAAAGUAUAAACAUUCCAG 789 CUGGAAUGUUUAUACUUUG 1358 NM_001735.2_1612-1630_s1612-1630 AUUCCAGUAACACAGAACA 790 UGUUCUGUGUUACUGGAAU 1359NM_001735.2_1622-1640_s 1622-1640 CACAGAACAUGGUUCCUUC 791GAAGGAACCAUGUUCUGUG 1360 NM_001735.2_1632-1650_s 1632-1560GGUUCCUUCAUCCCGACUU 792 AAGUCGGGAUGAAGGAACC 1361 NM_001735.2_1643-1661_s1643-1661 CCCGACUUCUGGUCUAUUA 793 UAAUAGACCAGAAGUCGGG 1362NM_001735.2_1653-1671_s 1653-1671 GGUCUAUUACAUCGUCACA 794UGUGACGAUGUAAUAGACC 1363 NM_001735.2_1663-1681_s 1663-1681AUCGUCACAGGAGAACAGA 795 UCUGUUCUCCUGUGACGAU 1364 NM_001735.2_1670-1688_s1670-1688 CAGGAGAACAGACAGCAGA 796 UCUGCUGUCUGUUCUCCUG 1365NM_001735.2_1682-1700_s 1682-1700 CAGCAGAAUUAGUGUCUGA 797UCAGACACUAAUUCUGCUG 1366 NM_001735.2_1693-1711_s 1693-1711GUGUCUGAUUCAGUCUGGU 798 ACCAGACUGAAUCAGACAC 1367 NM_001735.2_1703-1721_s1703-1721 CAGUCUGGUUAAAUAUUGA 799 UCAAUAUUUAACCAGACUG 1368NM_001735.2_1710-1728_s 1710-1728 GUUAAAUAUUGAAGAAAAA 800UUUUUCUUCAAUAUUUAAC 1369 NM_001735.2_1722-1740_s 1722-1740AGAAAAAUGUGGCAACCAG 801 CUGGUUGCCACAUUUUUCU 1370 NM_001735.2_1733-1751_s1733-1751 GCAACCAGCUCCAGGUUCA 802 UGAACCUGGAGCUGGUUGC 1371NM_001735.2_1740-1758_s 1740-1758 GCUCCAGGUUCAUCUGUCU 803AGACAGAUGAACCUGGAGC 1372 NM_001735.2_1751-1769_s 1751-1769AUCUGUCUCCUGAUGCAGA 804 UCUGCAUCAGGAGACAGAU 1373 NM_001735.2_1762-1780_s1762-1780 GAUGCAGAUGCAUAUUCUC 805 GAGAAUAUGCAUCUGCAUC 1374NM_001735.2_1771-1789_s 1771-1789 GCAUAUUCUCCAGGCCAAA 806UUUGGCCUGGAGAAUAUGC 1375 NM_001735.2_1782-1800_s 1782-1800AGGCCAAACUGUGUCUCUU 807 AAGAGACACAGUUUGGCCU 1376 NM_001735.2_1792-1810_s1792-1810 GUGUCUCUUAAUAUGGCAA 808 UUGCCAUAUUAAGAGACAC 1377NM_001735.2_1799-1817_s 1799-1817 UUAAUAUGGCAACUGGAAU 809AUUCCAGUUGCCAUAUUAA 1378 NM_001735.2_1809-1827_s 1809-1827AACUGGAAUGGAUUCCUGG 810 CCAGGAAUCCAUUCCAGUU 1379 NM_001735.2_1821-1839_s1821-1839 UUCCUGGGUGGCAUUAGCA 811 UGCUAAUGCCACCCAGGAA 1380NM_001735.2_1830-1848_s 1830-1848 GGCAUUAGCAGCAGUGGAC 812GUCCACUGCUGCUAAUGCC 1381 NM_001735.2_1842-1860_s 1842-1860AGUGGACAGUGCUGUGUAU 813 AUACACAGCACUGUCCACU 1382 NM_001735.2_1852-1870_s1852-1870 GCUGUGUAUGGAGUCCAAA 814 UUUGGACUCCAUACACAGC 1383NM_001735.2_1863-1881_s 1863-1881 AGUCCAAAGAGGAGCCAAA 815UUUGGCUCCUCUUUGGACU 1384 NM_001735.2_1870-1888_s 1870-1888AGAGGAGCCAAAAAGCCCU 816 AGGGCUUUUUGGCUCCUCU 1385 NM_001735.2_1883-1901_s1883-1901 AGCCCUUGGAAAGAGUAUU 817 AAUACUCUUUCCAAGGGCU 1386NM_001735.2_1893-1911_s 1893-1911 AAGAGUAUUUCAAUUCUUA 818UAAGAAUUGAAAUACUCUU 1387 NM_001735.2_1900-1918_s 1900-1918UUUCAAUUCUUAGAGAAGA 819 UCUUCUCUAAGAAUUGAAA 1388 NM_001735.2_1912-1930_s1912-1930 GAGAAGAGUGAUCUGGGCU 820 AGCCCAGAUCACUCUUCUC 1389NM_001735.2_1920-1938_s 1920-1938 UGAUCUGGGCUGUGGGGCA 821UGCCCCACAGCCCAGAUCA 1390 NM_001735.2_1933-1951_s 1933-1951GGGGCAGGUGGUGGCCUCA 822 UGAGGCCACCACCUGCCCC 1391 NM_001735.2_1943-1961_s1943-1961 GUGGCCUCAACAAUGCCAA 823 UUGGCAUUGUUGAGGCCAC 1392NM_001735.2_1950-1968_s 1950-1968 CAACAAUGCCAAUGUGUUC 824GAACACAUUGGCAUUGUUG 1393 NM_001735.2_1959-1977_s 1959-1977CAAUGUGUUCCACCUAGCU 825 AGCUAGGUGGAACACAUUG 1394 NM_001735.2_1969-1987_s1969-1987 CACCUAGCUGGACUUACCU 826 AGGUAAGUCCAGCUAGGUG 1395NM_001735.2_1979-1997_s 1979-1997 GACUUACCUUCCUCACUAA 827UUAGUGAGGAAGGUAAGUC 1396 NM_001735.2_1991-2009_s 1991-2009UCACUAAUGCAAAUGCAGA 828 UCUGCAUUUGCAUUAGUGA 1397 NM_001735.2_2001-2019_s2001-2019 AAAUGCAGAUGACUCCCAA 829 UUGGGAGUCAUCUGCAUUU 1398NM_001735.2_2013-2031_s 2013-2013 CUCCCAAGAAAAUGAUGAA 830UUCAUCAUUUUCUUGGGAG 1399 NM_001735.2_2032-2050_s 2032-2050CCUUGUAAAGAAAUUCUCA 831 UGAGAAUUUCUUUACAAGG 1400 NM_001735.2_2043-2061_s2043-2061 AAUUCUCAGGCCAAGAAGA 832 UCUUCUUGGCCUGAGAAUU 1401NM_001735.2_2053-2071_s 2053-2071 CCAAGAAGAACGCUGCAAA 833UUUGCAGCGUUCUUCUUGG 1402 NM_001735.2_2063-2081_s 2063-2081CGCUGCAAAAGAAGAUAGA 834 UCUAUCUUCUUUUGCAGCG 1403 NM_001735.2_2070-2088_s2070-2088 AAAGAAGAUAGAAGAAAUA 835 UAUUUCUUCUAUCUUCUUU 1404NM_001735.2_2082-2100_s 2082-2100 AGAAAUAGCUGCUAAAUAU 836AUAUUUAGCAGCUAUUUCU 1405 NM_001735.2_2089-2107_s 2089-2107GCUGCUAAAUAUAAACAUU 837 AAUGUUUAUAUUUAGCAGC 1406 NM_001735.2_2103-2121_s2103-2121 ACAUUCAGUAGUGAAGAAA 838 UUUCUUCACUACUGAAUGU 1407NM_001735.2_2110-2128_s 2110-2128 GUAGUGAAGAAAUGUUGUU 839AACAACAUUUCUUCACUAC 1408 NM_001735.2_2119-2137_s 2119-2137AAAUGUUGUUACGAUGGAG 840 CUCCAUCGUAACAACAUUU 1409 NM_001735.2_2130-2148_s2130-2148 CGAUGGAGCCUGCGUUAAU 841 AUUAACGCAGGCUCCAUCG 1410NM_001735.2_2142-2160_s 2142-2160 CGUUAAUAAUGAUGAAACC 842GGUUUCAUCAUUAUUAACG 1411 NM_001735.2_2150-2168_s 2150-2168AUGAUGAAACCUGUGAGCA 843 UGCUCACAGGUUUCAUCAU 1412 NM_001735.2_2160-2178_s2160-2178 CUGUGAGCAGCGAGCUGCA 844 UGCAGCUCGCUGCUCACAG 1413NM_001735.2_2170-2188_s 2170-2188 CGAGCUGCACGGAUUAGUU 845AACUAAUCCGUGCAGCUCG 1414 NM_001735.2_2180-2198_s 2180-2198GGAUUAGUUUAGGGCCAAG 846 CUUGGCCCUAAACUAAUCC 1415 NM_001735.2_2191-2209_s2191-2209 GGGCCAAGAUGCAUCAAAG 847 CUUUGAUGCAUCUUGGCCC 1416NM_001735.2_2202-2220_s 2202-2220 CAUCAAAGCUUUCACUGAA 848UUCAGUGAAAGCUUUGAUG 1417 NM_001735.2_2209-2227_s 2209-2227GCUUUCACUGAAUGUUGUG 849 CACAACAUUCAGUGAAAGC 1418 NM_001735.2_2219-2237_s2219-2237 AAUGUUGUGUCGUCGCAAG 850 CUUGCGACGACACAACAUU 1419NM_001735.2_2229-2247_s 2229-2247 CGUCGCAAGCCAGCUCCGU 851ACGGAGCUGGCUUGCGACG 1420 NM_001735.2_2241-2259_s 2241-2259GCUCCGUGCUAAUAUCUCU 852 AGAGAUAUUAGCACGGAGC 1421 NM_001735.2_2249-2267_s2249-2267 CUAAUAUCUCUCAUAAAGA 853 UCUUUAUGAGAGAUAUUAG 1422NM_001735.2_2263-2281_s 2263-2281 AAAGACAUGCAAUUGGGAA 854UUCCCAAUUGCAUGUCUUU 1423 NM_001735.2_2272-2290_s 2272-2290CAAUUGGGAAGGCUACACA 855 UGUGUAGCCUUCCCAAUUG 1424 NM_001735.2_2283-2301_s2283-2301 GCUACACAUGAAGACCCUG 856 CAGGGUCUUCAUGUGUAGC 1425NM_001735.2_2289-2307_s 2289-2307 CAUGAAGACCCUGUUACCA 857UGGUAACAGGGUCUUCAUG 1426 NM_001735.2_2303-2321_s 2303-2321UACCAGUAAGCAAGCCAGA 858 UCUGGCUUGCUUACUGGUA 1427 NM_001735.2_2311-2329_s2311-2329 AGCAAGCCAGAAAUUCGGA 859 UCCGAAUUUCUGGCUUGCU 1428NM_001735.2_2319-2337_s 2319-2337 AGAAAUUCGGAGUUAUUUU 860AAAAUAACUCCGAAUUUCU 1429 NM_001735.2_2329-2347_s 2329-2347AGUUAUUUUCCAGAAAGCU 861 AGCUUUCUGGAAAAUAACU 1430 NM_001735.2_2339-2357_s2339-2357 CAGAAAGCUGGUUGUGGGA 862 UCCCACAACCAGCUUUCUG 1431NM_001735.2_2352-2370_s 2352-2370 GUGGGAAGUUCAUCUUGUU 863AACAAGAUGAACUUCCCAC 1432 NM_001735.2_2361-2379_s 2361-2379UCAUCUUGUUCCCAGAAGA 864 UCUUCUGGGAACAAGAUGA 1433 NM_001735.2_2372-2390_s2372-2390 CCAGAAGAAAACAGUUGCA 865 UGCAACUGUUUUCUUCUGG 1434NM_001735.2_2383-2401_s 2383-2401 CAGUUGCAGUUUGCCCUAC 866GUAGGGCAAACUGCAACUG 1435 NM_001735.2_2389-2407_s 2389-2407CAGUUUGCCCUACCUGAUU 867 AAUCAGGUAGGGCAAACUG 1436 NM_001735.2_2401-2419_s2401-2419 CCUGAUUCUCUAACCACCU 868 AGGUGGUUAGAGAAUCAGG 1437NM_001735.2_2413-2431_s 2413-2431 ACCACCUGGGAAAUUCAAG 869CUUGAAUUUCCCAGGUGGU 1438 NM_001735.2_2422-2440_s 2422-2440GAAAUUCAAGGCGUUGGCA 870 UGCCAACGCCUUGAAUUUC 1439 NM_001735.2_2433-2451_s2433-2451 CGUUGGCAUUUCAAACACU 871 AGUGUUUGAAAUGCCAACG 1440NM_001735.2_2439-2457_s 2439-2457 CAUUUCAAACACUGGUAUA 872UAUACCAGUGUUUGAAAUG 1441 NM_001735.2_2453-2471_s 2453-2471GUAUAUGUGUUGCUGAUAC 873 GUAUCAGCAACACAUAUAC 1442 NM_001735.2_2463-2481_s2463-2481 UGCUGAUACUGUCAAGGCA 874 UGCCUUGACAGUAUCAGCA 1443NM_001735.2_2471-2489_s 2471-2489 CUGUCAAGGCAAAGGUGUU 875AACACCUUUGCCUUGACAG 1444 NM_001735.2_2483-2501_s 2483-2501AGGUGUUCAAAGAUGUCUU 876 AAGACAUCUUUGAACACCU 1445 NM_001735.2_2490-2508_s2490-2508 CAAAGAUGUCUUCCUGGAA 877 UUCCAGGAAGACAUCUUUG 1446NM_001735.2_2499-2517_s 2499-2517 CUUCCUGGAAAUGAAUAUA 878UAUAUUCAUUUCCAGGAAG 1447 NM_001735.2_2511-2529_s 2511-2529GAAUAUACCAUAUUCUGUU 879 AACAGAAUAUGGUAUAUUC 1448 NM_001735.2_2520-2538_s2520-2538 AUAUUCUGUUGUACGAGGA 880 UCCUCGUACAACAGAAUAU 1449NM_001735.2_2533-2551_s 2533-2551 CGAGGAGAACAGAUCCAAU 881AUUGGAUCUGUUCUCCUCG 1450 NM_001735.2_2539-2557_s 2539-2557GAACAGAUCCAAUUGAAAG 882 CUUUCAAUUGGAUCUGUUC 1451 NM_001735.2_2553-2571_s2553-2571 GAAAGGAACUGUUUACAAC 883 GUUGUAAACAGUUCCUUUC 1452NM_001735.2_2560-2578_s 2560-2578 ACUGUUUACAACUAUAGGA 884UCCUAUAGUUGUAAACAGU 1453 NM_001735.2_2569-2587_s 2569-2587AACUAUAGGACUUCUGGGA 885 UCCCAGAAGUCCUAUAGUU 1454 NM_001735.2_2583-2601_s2583-2601 UGGGAUGCAGUUCUGUGUU 886 AACACAGAACUGCAUCCCA 1455NM_001735.2_2592-2610_s 2592-2610 GUUCUGUGUUAAAAUGUCU 887AGACAUUUUAACACAGAAC 1456 NM_001735.2_2600-2618_s 2600-2618UUAAAAUGUCUGCUGUGGA 888 UCCACAGCAGACAUUUUAA 1457 NM_001735.2_2612-2630_s2612-2630 CUGUGGAGGGAAUCUGCAC 889 GUGCAGAUUCCCUCCACAG 1458NM_001735.2_2620-2638_s 2620-2638 GGAAUCUGCACUUCGGAAA 890UUUCCGAAGUGCAGAUUCC 1459 NM_001735.2_2633-2651_s 2633-2651CGGAAAGCCCAGUCAUUGA 891 UCAAUGACUGGGCUUUCCG 1460 NM_001735.2_2641-2659_s2641-2659 CCAGUCAUUGAUCAUCAGG 892 CCUGAUGAUCAAUGACUGG 1461NM_001735.2_2653-2671_s 2653-2671 CAUCAGGGCACAAAGUCCU 893AGGACUUUGUGCCCUGAUG 1462 NM_001735.2_2659-2677_s 2659-2677GGCACAAAGUCCUCCAAAU 894 AUUUGGAGGACUUUGUGCC 1463 NM_001735.2_2673-2691_s2673-2691 CAAAUGUGUGCGCCAGAAA 895 UUUCUGGCGCACACAUUUG 1464NM_001735.2_2682-2700_s 2682-2700 GCGCCAGAAAGUAGAGGGC 896GCCCUCUACUUUCUGGCGC 1465 NM_001735.2_2691-2709_s 2691-2709AGUAGAGGGCUCCUCCAGU 897 ACUGGAGGAGCCCUCUACU 1466 NM_001735.2_2702-2720_s2702-2720 CCUCCAGUCACUUGGUGAC 898 GUCACCAAGUGACUGGAGG 1467NM_001735.2_2709-2727_s 2709-2727 UCACUUGGUGACAUUCACU 899AGUGAAUGUCACCAAGUGA 1468 NM_001735.2_2720-2738_s 2720-2738CAUUCACUGUGCUUCCUCU 900 AGAGGAAGCACAGUGAAUG 1469 NM_001735.2_2739-2757_s2739-2757 GGAAAUUGGCCUUCACAAC 901 GUUGUGAAGGCCAAUUUCC 1470NM_001735.2_2749-2767_s 2749-2767 CUUCACAACAUCAAUUUUU 902AAAAAUUGAUGUUGUGAAG 1471 NM_001735.2_2761-2779_s 2761-2779AAUUUUUCACUGGAGACUU 903 AAGUCUCCAGUGAAAAAUU 1472 NM_001735.2_2770-2788_s2770-2788 CUGGAGACUUGGUUUGGAA 904 UUCCAAACCAAGUCUCCAG 1473NM_001735.2_2780-2798_s 2780-2798 GGUUUGGAAAAGAAAUCUU 905AAGAUUUCUUUUCCAAACC 1474 NM_001735.2_2793-2811_s 2793-2811AAUCUUAGUAAAAACAUUA 906 UAAUGUUUUUACUAAGAUU 1475 NM_001735.2_2802-2820_s2802-2820 AAAAACAUUACGAGUGGUG 907 CACCACUCGUAAUGUUUUU 1476NM_001735.2_2813-2831_s 2813-2831 GAGUGGUGCCAGAAGGUGU 908ACACCUUCUGGCACCACUC 1477 NM_001735.2_2823-2841_s 2823-2841AGAAGGUGUCAAAAGGGAA 909 UUCCCUUUUGACACCUUCU 1478 NM_001735.2_2829-2847_s2829-2847 UGUCAAAAGGGAAAGCUAU 910 AUAGCUUUCCCUUUUGACA 1479NM_001735.2_2843-2861_s 2843-2861 GCUAUUCUGGUGUUACUUU 911AAAGUAACACCAGAAUAGC 1480 NM_001735.2_2852-2870_s 2852-2870GUGUUACUUUGGAUCCUAG 912 CUAGGAUCCAAAGUAACAC 1481 NM_001735.2_2862-2880_s2862-2880 GGAUCCUAGGGGUAUUUAU 913 AUAAAUACCCCUAGGAUCC 1482NM_001735.2_2872-2890_s 2872-2890 GGUAUUUAUGGUACCAUUA 914UAAUGGUACCAUAAAUACC 1483 NM_001735.2_2882-2900_s 2882-2900GUACCAUUAGCAGACGAAA 915 UUUCGUCUGCUAAUGGUAC 1484 NM_001735.2_2892-2910_s2892-2910 CAGACGAAAGGAGUUCCCA 916 UGGGAACUCCUUUCGUCUG 1485NM_001735.2_2900-2918_s 2900-2918 AGGAGUUCCCAUACAGGAU 917AUCCUGUAUGGGAACUCCU 1486 NM_001735.2_2909-2927_s 2909-2927CAUACAGGAUACCCUUAGA 918 UCUAAGGGUAUCCUGUAUG 1487 NM_001735.2_2922-2940_s2922-2940 CUUAGAUUUGGUCCCCAAA 919 UUUGGGGACCAAAUCUAAG 1488NM_001735.2_2933-2951_s 2933-2951 UCCCCAAAACAGAAAUCAA 920UUGAUUUCUGUUUUGGGGA 1489 NM_001735.2_2941-2959_s 2941-2959ACAGAAAUCAAAAGGAUUU 921 AAAUCCUUUUGAUUUCUGU 1490 NM_001735.2_2951-2969_s2951-2969 AAAGGAUUUUGAGUGUAAA 922 UUUACACUCAAAAUCCUUU 1491NM_001735.2_2962-2980_s 2962-2980 AGUGUAAAAGGACUGCUUG 923CAAGCAGUCCUUUUACACU 1492 NM_001735.2_2969-2987_s 2969-2987AAGGACUGCUUGUAGGUGA 924 UCACCUACAAGCAGUCCUU 1493 NM_001735.2_2980-2998_s2980-2998 GUAGGUGAGAUCUUGUCUG 925 CAGACAAGAUCUCACCUAC 1494NM_001735.2_2989-3007_s 2989-3007 AUCUUGUCUGCAGUUCUAA 926UUAGAACUGCAGACAAGAU 1495 NM_001735.2_3001-3019_s 3001-3019GUUCUAAGUCAGGAAGGCA 927 UGCCUUCCUGACUUAGAAC 1496 NM_001735.2_3013-3031_s3013-3031 GAAGGCAUCAAUAUCCUAA 928 UUAGGAUAUUGAUGCCUUC 1497NM_001735.2_3020-3038_s 3020-3038 UCAAUAUCCUAACCCACCU 929AGGUGGGUUAGGAUAUUGA 1498 NM_001735.2_3033-3051_s 3033-3051CCACCUCCCCAAAGGGAGU 930 ACUCCCUUUGGGGAGGUGG 1499 NM_001735.2_3039-3057_s3039-3057 CCCCAAAGGGAGUGCAGAG 931 CUCUGCACUCCCUUUGGGG 1500NM_001735.2_3050-3068_s 3050-3068 GUGCAGAGGCGGAGCUGAU 932AUCAGCUCCGCCUCUGCAC 1501 NM_001735.2_3060-3078_s 3060-3078GGAGCUGAUGAGCGUUGUC 933 GACAACGCUCAUCAGCUCC 1502 NM_001735.2_3072-3090_s3072-3090 CGUUGUCCCAGUAUUCUAU 934 AUAGAAUACUGGGACAACG 1503NM_001735.2_3079-3097_s 3079-3097 CCAGUAUUCUAUGUUUUUC 935GAAAAACAUAGAAUACUGG 1504 NM_001735.2_3091-3109_s 3091-3109GUUUUUCACUACCUGGAAA 936 UUUCCAGGUAGUGAAAAAC 1505 NM_001735.2_3102-3120_s3102-3120 CCUGGAAACAGGAAAUCAU 937 AUGAUUUCCUGUUUCCAGG 1506NM_001735.2_3122-3140_s 3122-3140 GGAACAUUUUUCAUUCUGA 938UCAGAAUGAAAAAUGUUCC 1507 NM_001735.2_3133-3151_s 3133-3151CAUUCUGACCCAUUAAUUG 939 CAAUUAAUGGGUCAGAAUG 1508 NM_001735.2_3142-3160_s3142-3160 CCAUUAAUUGAAAAGCAGA 940 UCUGCUUUUCAAUUAAUGG 1509NM_001735.2_3153-3171_s 3153-3171 AAAGCAGAAACUGAAGAAA 941UUUCUUCAGUUUCUGCUUU 1510 NM_001735.2_3161-3179_s 3161-3179AACUGAAGAAAAAAUUAAA 942 UUUAAUUUUUUCUUCAGUU 1511 NM_001735.2_3169-3187_s3169-3187 AAAAAAUUAAAAGAAGGGA 943 UCCCUUCUUUUAAUUUUUU 1512NM_001735.2_3183-3201_s 3183-3201 AGGGAUGUUGAGCAUUAUG 944CAUAAUGCUCAACAUCCCU 1513 NM_001735.2_3192-3210_s 3192-3210GAGCAUUAUGUCCUACAGA 945 UCUGUAGGACAUAAUGCUC 1514 NM_001735.2_3200-3218_s3200-3218 UGUCCUACAGAAAUGCUGA 946 UCAGCAUUUCUGUAGGACA 1515NM_001735.2_3211-3229_s 3211-3229 AAUGCUGACUACUCUUACA 947UGUAAGAGUAGUCAGCAUU 1516 NM_001735.2_3220-3238_s 3220-3238UACUCUUACAGUGUGUGGA 948 UCCACACACUGUAAGAGUA 1517 NM_001735.2_3229-3247_s3229-3247 AGUGUGUGGAAGGGUGGAA 949 UUCCACCCUUCCACACACU 1518NM_001735.2_3240-3258_s 3240-3258 GGGUGGAAGUGCUAGCACU 950AGUGCUAGCACUUCCACCC 1519 NM_001735.2_3250-3268_s 3250-3268GCUAGCACUUGGUUAACAG 951 CUGUUAACCAAGUGCUAGC 1520 NM_001735.2_3260-3278_s3260-3278 GGUUAACAGCUUUUGCUUU 952 AAAGCAAAAGCUGUUAACC 1521NM_001735.2_3273-3291_s 3273-3291 UGCUUUAAGAGUACUUGGA 953UCCAAGUACUCUUAAAGCA 1522 NM_001735.2_3283-3301_s 3283-3301GUACUUGGACAAGUAAAUA 954 UAUUUACUUGUCCAAGUAC 1523 NM_001735.2_3292-3310_s3292-3317 CAAGUAAAUAAAUACGUAG 955 CUACGUAUUUAUUUACUUG 1524NM_001735.2_3299-3317_s 3299-3317 AUAAAUACGUAGAGCAGAA 956UUCUGCUCUACGUAUUUAU 1525 NM_001735.2_3310-3328_s 3310-3328GAGCAGAACCAAAAUUCAA 957 UUGAAUUUUGGUUCUGCUC 1526 NM_001735.2_3322-3340_s3322-3340 AAUUCAAUUUGUAAUUCUU 958 AAGAAUUACAAAUUGAAUU 1527NM_001735.2_3332-3350_s 3332-3350 GUAAUUCUUUAUUGUGGCU 959AGCCACAAUAAAGAAUUAC 1528 NM_001735.2_3342-3360_s 3342-3360AUUGUGGCUAGUUGAGAAU 960 AUUCUCAACUAGCCACAAU 1529 NM_001735.2_3349-3367_s3349-3367 CUAGUUGAGAAUUAUCAAU 961 AUUGAUAAUUCUCAACUAG 1530NM_001735.2_3360-3378_s 3360-3378 UUAUCAAUUAGAUAAUGGA 962UCCAUUAUCUAAUUGAUAA 1531 NM_001735.2_3373-3391_s 3373-3391AAUGGAUCUUUCAAGGAAA 963 UUUCCUUGAAAGAUCCAUU 1532 NM_001735.2_3380-3398_s3380-3398 CUUUCAAGGAAAAUUCACA 964 UGUGAAUUUUCCUUGAAAG 1533NM_001735.2_3391-3409_s 3391-3409 AAUUCACAGUAUCAACCAA 965UUGGUUGAUACUGUGAAUU 1534 NM_001735.2_3399-3417_s 3399-3417GUAUCAACCAAUAAAAUUA 966 UAAUUUUAUUGGUUGAUAC 1535 NM_001735.2_3411-3429_s3411-3429 AAAAUUACAGGGUACCUUG 967 CAAGGUACCCUGUAAUUUU 1536NM_001735.2_3419-3437_s 3419-3437 AGGGUACCUUGCCUGUUGA 968UCAACAGGCAAGGUACCCU 1537 NM_001735.2_3433-3451_s 3433-3451GUUGAAGCCCGAGAGAACA 969 UGUUCUCUCGGGCUUCAAC 1538 NM_001735.2_3441-3459_s3441-3559 CCGAGAGAACAGCUUAUAU 970 AUAUAAGCUGUUCUCUCGG 1539NM_001735.2_3452-3470_s 3452-3470 GCUUAUAUCUUACAGCCUU 971AAGGCUGUAAGAUAUAAGC 1540 NM_001735.2_3460-3478_s 3460-3478CUUACAGCCUUUACUGUGA 972 UCACAGUAAAGGCUGUAAG 1541 NM_001735.2_3482-3500_s3482-3500 GAAUUAGAAAGGCUUUCGA 973 UCGAAAGCCUUUCUAAUUC 1542NM_001735.2_3492-3510_s 3492-3510 GGCUUUCGAUAUAUGCCCC 974GGGGCAUAUAUCGAAAGCC 1543 NM_001735.2_3499-3517_s 3499-3517GAUAUAUGCCCCCUGGUGA 975 UCACCAGGGGGCAUAUAUC 1544 NM_001735.2_3513-3531_s3513-3531 GGUGAAAAUCGACACAGCU 976 AGCUGUGUCGAUUUUCACC 1545NM_001735.2_3522-3540_s 3522-3540 CGACACAGCUCUAAUUAAA 977UUUAAUUAGAGCUGUGUCG 1546 NM_001735.2_3529-3547_s 3529-3547GCUCUAAUUAAAGCUGACA 978 UGUCAGCUUUAAUUAGAGC 1547 NM_001735.2_3542-3560_s3542-3560 CUGACAACUUUCUGCUUGA 979 UCAAGCAGAAAGUUGUCAG 1548NM_001735.2_3549-3567_s 3549-3567 CUUUCUGCUUGAAAAUACA 980UGUAUUUUCAAGCAGAAAG 1549 NM_001735.2_3560-3578_s 3560-3578AAAAUACACUGCCAGCCCA 981 UGGGCUGGCAGUGUAUUUU 1550 NM_001735.2_3573-3591_s3573-3591 AGCCCAGAGCACCUUUACA 982 UGUAAAGGUGCUCUGGGCU 1551NM_001735.2_3581-3599_s 3581-3599 GCACCUUUACAUUGGCCAU 983AUGGCCAAUGUAAAGGUGC 1552 NM_001735.2_3589-3607_s 3589-3607ACAUUGGCCAUUUCUGCGU 984 ACGCAGAAAUGGCCAAUGU 1553 NM_001735.2_3602-3620_s3602-3620 CUGCGUAUGCUCUUUCCCU 985 AGGGAAAGAGCAUACGCAG 1554NM_001735.2_3613-3631_s 3613-3631 CUUUCCCUGGGAGAUAAAA 986UUUUAUCUCCCAGGGAAAG 1555 NM_001735.2_3623-3641_s 3623-3641GAGAUAAAACUCACCCACA 987 UGUGGGUGAGUUUUAUCUC 1556 NM_001735.2_3631-3649_s3631-3649 ACUCACCCACAGUUUCGUU 988 AACGAAACUGUGGGUGAGU 1557NM_001735.2_3640-3658_s 3640-3658 CAGUUUCGUUCAAUUGUUU 989AAACAAUUGAACGAAACUG 1558 NM_001735.2_3650-3668_s 3650-3668CAAUUGUUUCAGCUUUGAA 990 UUCAAAGCUGAAACAAUUG 1559 NM_001735.2_3662-3680_s3662-3680 CUUUGAAGAGAGAAGCUUU 991 AAAGCUUCUCUCUUCAAAG 1560NM_001735.2_3669-3687_s 3669-3687 GAGAGAAGCUUUGGUUAAA 992UUUAACCAAAGCUUCUCUC 1561 NM_001735.2_3682-3700_s 3682-3700GUUAAAGGUAAUCCACCCA 993 UGGGUGGAUUACCUUUAAC 1562 NM_001735.2_3691-3709_s3691-3709 AAUCCACCCAUUUAUCGUU 994 AACGAUAAAUGGGUGGAUU 1563NM_001735.2_3699-3717_s 3699-3717 CAUUUAUCGUUUUUGGAAA 995UUUCCAAAAACGAUAAAUG 1564 NM_001735.2_3710-3728_s 3710-3728UUUGGAAAGACAAUCUUCA 996 UGAAGAUUGUCUUUCCAAA 1565 NM_001735.2_3721-3739_s3721-3739 AAUCUUCAGCAUAAAGACA 997 UGUCUUUAUGCUGAAGAUU 1566NM_001735.2_3730-3748_s 3730-3748 CAUAAAGACAGCUCUGUAC 998GUACAGAGCUGUCUUUAUG 1567 NM_001735.2_3741-3759_s 3741-3759CUCUGUACCUAACACUGGU 999 ACCAGUGUUAGGUACAGAG 1568 NM_001735.2_3752-3770_s3752-3770 ACACUGGUACGGCACGUAU 1000 AUACGUGCCGUACCAGUGU 1569NM_001735.2_3762-3780_s 3762-3780 GGCACGUAUGGUAGAAACA 1001UGUUUCUACCAUACGUGCC 1570 NM_001735.2_3771-3789_s 3771-3789GGUAGAAACAACUGCCUAU 1002 AUAGGCAGUUGUUUCUACC 1571NM_001735.2_3779-3797_s 3779-3797 CAACUGCCUAUGCUUUACU 1003AGUAAAGCAUAGGCAGUUG 1572 NM_001735.2_3791-3809_s 3791-3809CUUUACUCACCAGUCUGAA 1004 UUCAGACUGGUGAGUAAAG 1573NM_001735.2_3803-3821_s 3803-3821 GUCUGAACUUGAAAGAUAU 1005AUAUCUUUCAAGUUCAGAC 1574 NM_001735.2_3809-3827_s 3809-3827ACUUGAAAGAUAUAAAUUA 1006 UAAUUUAUAUCUUUCAAGU 1575NM_001735.2_3819-3837_s 3819-3837 UAUAAAUUAUGUUAACCCA 1007UGGGUUAACAUAAUUUAUA 1576 NM_001735.2_3829-3847_s 3829-3847GUUAACCCAGUCAUCAAAU 1008 AUUUGAUGACUGGGUUAAC 1577NM_001735.2_3839-3857_s 3839-3857 UCAUCAAAUGGCUAUCAGA 1009UCUGAUAGCCAUUUGAUGA 1578 NM_001735.2_3851-3869_s 3851-3869UAUCAGAAGAGCAGAGGUA 1010 UACCUCUGCUCUUCUGAUA 1579NM_001735.2_3863-3881_s 3863-3881 AGAGGUAUGGAGGUGGCUU 1011AAGCCACCUCCAUACCUCU 1580 NM_001735.2_3872-3890_s 3872-3890GAGGUGGCUUUUAUUCAAC 1012 GUUGAAUAAAAGCCACCUC 1581NM_001735.2_3883-3901_s 3883-3901 UAUUCAACCCAGGACACAA 1013UUGUGUCCUGGGUUGAAUA 1582 NM_001735.2_3893-3911_s 3893-3911AGGACACAAUCAAUGCCAU 1014 AUGGCAUUGAUUGUGUCCU 1583NM_001735.2_3899-3917_s 3899-3917 CAAUCAAUGCCAUUGAGGG 1015CCCUCAAUGGCAUUGAUUG 1584 NM_001735.2_3909-3927_s 3909-3927CAUUGAGGGCCUGACGGAA 1016 UUCCGUCAGGCCCUCAAUG 1585NM_001735.2_3922-3940_s 3922-3940 ACGGAAUAUUCACUCCUGG 1017CCAGGAGUGAAUAUUCCGU 1586 NM_001735.2_3930-3948_s 3930-3948UUCACUCCUGGUUAAACAA 1018 UUGUUUAACCAGGAGUGAA 1587NM_001735.2_3939-3957_s 3939-3957 GGUUAAACAACUCCGCUUG 1019CAAGCGGAGUUGUUUAACC 1588 NM_001735.2_3951-3969_s 3951-3969CCGCUUGAGUAUGGACAUC 1020 GAUGUCCAUACUCAAGCGG 1589NM_001735.2_3963-3981_s 3963-3981 GGACAUCGAUGUUUCUUAC 1021GUAAGAAACAUCGAUGUCC 1590 NM_001735.2_3969-3987_s 3969-3987CGAUGUUUCUUACAAGCAU 1022 AUGCUUGUAAGAAACAUCG 1591NM_001735.2_3981-3999_s 3981-3999 CAAGCAUAAAGGUGCCUUA 1023UAAGGCACCUUUAUGCUUG 1592 NM_001735.2_3992-4010_s 3992-4010GUGCCUUACAUAAUUAUAA 1024 UUAUAAUUAUGUAAGGCAC 1593NM_001735.2_3999-4017_s 3999-4017 ACAUAAUUAUAAAAUGACA 1025UGUCAUUUUAUAAUUAUGU 1594 NM_001735.2_4009-4027_s 4009-4027AAAAUGACAGACAAGAAUU 1026 AAUUCUUGUCUGUCAUUUU 1595NM_001735.2_4020-4038_s 4020-4038 CAAGAAUUUCCUUGGGAGG 1027CCUCCCAAGGAAAUUCUUG 1596 NM_001735.2_4029-4047_s 4029-4047CCUUGGGAGGCCAGUAGAG 1028 CUCUACUGGCCUCCCAAGG 1597NM_001735.2_4041-4059_s 4041-4059 AGUAGAGGUGCUUCUCAAU 1029AUUGAGAAGCACCUCUACU 1598 NM_001735.2_4051-4069_s 4051-4069CUUCUCAAUGAUGACCUCA 1030 UGAGGUCAUCAUUGAGAAG 1599NM_001735.2_4062-4080_s 4062-4080 UGACCUCAUUGUCAGUACA 1031UGUACUGACAAUGAGGUCA 1600 NM_001735.2_4072-4090_s 4072-4090GUCAGUACAGGAUUUGGCA 1032 UGCCAAAUCCUGUACUGAC 1601NM_001735.2_4080-4098_s 4080-4098 AGGAUUUGGCAGUGGCUUG 1033CAAGCCACUGCCAAAUCCU 1602 NM_001735.2_4092-4110_s 4092-4110UGGCUUGGCUACAGUACAU 1034 AUGUACUGUAGCCAAGCCA 1603NM_001735.2_4099-4117_s 4099-4117 GCUACAGUACAUGUAACAA 1035UUGUUACAUGUACUGUAGC 1604 NM_001735.2_4113-4131_s 4113-4131AACAACUGUAGUUCACAAA 1036 UUUGUGAACUACAGUUGUU 1605NM_001735.2_4120-4138_s 4120-4138 GUAGUUCACAAAACCAGUA 1037UACUGGUUUUGUGAACUAC 1606 NM_001735.2_4130-4148_s 4130-4148AAACCAGUACCUCUGAGGA 1038 UCCUCAGAGGUACUGGUUU 1607NM_001735.2_4143-4161_s 4143-4161 UGAGGAAGUUUGCAGCUUU 1039AAAGCUGCAAACUUCCUCA 1608 NM_001735.2_4153-4171_s 4153-4171UGCAGCUUUUAUUUGAAAA 1040 UUUUCAAAUAAAAGCUGCA 1609NM_001735.2_4163-4181_s 4163-4181 AUUUGAAAAUCGAUACUCA 1041UGAGUAUCGAUUUUCAAAU 1610 NM_001735.2_4173-4191_s 4173-4191CGAUACUCAGGAUAUUGAA 1042 UUCAAUAUCCUGAGUAUCG 1611NM_001735.2_4182-4200_s 4182-4200 GGAUAUUGAAGCAUCCCAC 1043GUGGGAUGCUUCAAUAUCC 1612 NM_001735.2_4189-4207_s 4189-4207GAAGCAUCCCACUACAGAG 1044 CUCUGUAGUGGGAUGCUUC 1613NM_001735.2_4199-4217_s 4199-4217 ACUACAGAGGCUACGGAAA 1045UUUCCGUAGCCUCUGUAGU 1614 NM_001735.2_4212-4230_s 4212-4230CGGAAACUCUGAUUACAAA 1046 UUUGUAAUCAGAGUUUCCG 1615NM_001735.2_4221-4239_s 4221-4239 UGAUUACAAACGCAUAGUA 1047UACUAUGCGUUUGUAAUCA 1616 NM_001735.2_4232-4250_s 4232-4250GCAUAGUAGCAUGUGCCAG 1048 CUGGCACAUGCUACUAUGC 1617NM_001735.2_4240-4258_s 4240-4258 GCAUGUGCCAGCUACAAGC 1049GCUUGUAGCUGGCACAUGC 1618 NM_001735.2_4251-4269_s 4251-4269CUACAAGCCCAGCAGGGAA 1050 UUCCCUGCUGGGCUUGUAG 1619NM_001735.2_4260-4278_s 4260-4278 CAGCAGGGAAGAAUCAUCA 1051UGAUGAUUCUUCCCUGCUG 1620 NM_001735.2_4270-4288_s 4270-4288GAAUCAUCAUCUGGAUCCU 1052 AGGAUCCAGAUGAUGAUUC 1621NM_001735.2_4283-4301_s 4283-4301 GAUCCUCUCAUGCGGUGAU 1053AUCACCGCAUGAGAGGAUC 1622 NM_001735.2_4289-4307_s 4289-4307CUCAUGCGGUGAUGGACAU 1054 AUGUCCAUCACCGCAUGAG 1623NM_001735.2_4299-4317_s 4299-4317 GAUGGACAUCUCCUUGCCU 1055AGGCAAGGAGAUGUCCAUC 1624 NM_001735.2_4311-4329_s 4311-4329CUUGCCUACUGGAAUCAGU 1056 ACUGAUUCCAGUAGGCAAG 1625NM_001735.2_4322-4340_s 4322-4340 GAAUCAGUGCAAAUGAAGA 1057UCUUCAUUUGCACUGAUUC 1626 NM_001735.2_4332-4350_s 4332-4350AAAUGAAGAAGACUUAAAA 1058 UUUUAAGUCUUCUUCAUUU 1627NM_001735.2_4339-4357_s 4339-4357 GAAGACUUAAAAGCCCUUG 1059CAAGGGCUUUUAAGUCUUC 1628 NM_001735.2_4353-4371_s 4353-4371CCUUGUGGAAGGGGUGGAU 1060 AUCCACCCCUUCCACAAGG 1629NM_001735.2_4360-4378_s 4360-4378 GAAGGGGUGGAUCAACUAU 1061AUAGUUGAUCCACCCCUUC 1630 NM_001735.2_4370-4388_s 4370-4388AUCAACUAUUCACUGAUUA 1062 UAAUCAGUGAAUAGUUGAU 1631NM_001735.2_4380-4398_s 4380-4398 CACUGAUUACCAAAUCAAA 1063UUUGAUUUGGUAAUCAGUG 1632 NM_001735.2_4393-4411_s 4393-4411AUCAAAGAUGGACAUGUUA 1064 UAACAUGUCCAUCUUUGAU 1633NM_001735.2_4402-4420_s 4402-4420 GGACAUGUUAUUCUGCAAC 1065GUUGCAGAAUAACAUGUCC 1634 NM_001735.2_4413-4431_s 4413-4431UCUGCAACUGAAUUCGAUU 1066 AAUCGAAUUCAGUUGCAGA 1635NM_001735.2_4422-4440_s 4422-4440 GAAUUCGAUUCCCUCCAGU 1067ACUGGAGGGAAUCGAAUUC 1636 NM_001735.2_4432-4450_s 4432-4450CCCUCCAGUGAUUUCCUUU 1068 AAAGGAAAUCACUGGAGGG 1637NM_001735.2_4441-4459_s 4441-4459 GAUUUCCUUUGUGUACGAU 1069AUCGUACACAAAGGAAAUC 1638 NM_001735.2_4453-4471_s 4453-4471GUACGAUUCCGGAUAUUUG 1070 CAAAUAUCCGGAAUCGUAC 1639NM_001735.2_4462-4480_s 4462-4480 CGGAUAUUUGAACUCUUUG 1071CAAAGAGUUCAAAUAUCCG 1640 NM_001735.2_4473-4491_s 4473-4491ACUCUUUGAAGUUGGGUUU 1072 AAACCCAACUUCAAAGAGU 1641NM_001735.2_4482-4500_s 4482-4500 AGUUGGGUUUCUCAGUCCU 1073AGGACUGAGAAACCCAACU 1642 NM_001735.2_4490-4508_s 4490-4508UUCUCAGUCCUGCCACUUU 1074 AAAGUGGCAGGACUGAGAA 1643NM_001735.2_4503-4521_s 4503-4521 CACUUUCACAGUGUACGAA 1075UUCGUACACUGUGAAAGUG 1644 NM_001735.2_4509-4527_s 4509-4527CACAGUGUACGAAUACCAC 1076 GUGGUAUUCGUACACUGUG 1645NM_001735.2_4523-4541_s 4523-4541 ACCACAGACCAGAUAAACA 1077UGUUUAUCUGGUCUGUGGU 1646 NM_001735.2_4531-4549_s 4531-4549CCAGAUAAACAGUGUACCA 1078 UGGUACACUGUUUAUCUGG 1647NM_001735.2_4540-4558_s 4540-4558 CAGUGUACCAUGUUUUAUA 1079UAUAAAACAUGGUACACUG 1648 NM_001735.2_4551-4569_s 4551-4569GUUUUAUAGCACUUCCAAU 1080 AUUGGAAGUGCUAUAAAAC 1649NM_001735.2_4562-4580_s 4562-4580 CUUCCAAUAUCAAAAUUCA 1081UGAAUUUUGAUAUUGGAAG 1650 NM_001735.2_4570-4588_s 4570-4588AUCAAAAUUCAGAAAGUCU 1082 AGACUUUCUGAAUUUUGAU 1651NM_001735.2_4581-4599_s 4581-4599 GAAAGUCUGUGAAGGAGCC 1083GGCUCCUUCACAGACUUUC 1652 NM_001735.2_4591-4609_s 4591-4609GAAGGAGCCGCGUGCAAGU 1084 ACUUGCACGCGGCUCCUUC 1653NM_001735.2_4601-4619_s 4601-4619 CGUGCAAGUGUGUAGAAGC 1085GCUUCUACACACUUGCACG 1654 NM_001735.2_4612-4630_s 4612-4630GUAGAAGCUGAUUGUGGGC 1086 GCCCACAAUCAGCUUCUAC 1655NM_001735.2_4619-4637_s 4619-4637 CUGAUUGUGGGCAAAUGCA 1087UGCAUUUGCCCACAAUCAG 1656 NM_001735.2_4629-4647_s 4629-4647GCAAAUGCAGGAAGAAUUG 1088 CAAUUCUUCCUGCAUUUGC 1657NM_001735.2_4639-4657_s 4639-4657 GAAGAAUUGGAUCUGACAA 1089UUGUCAGAUCCAAUUCUUC 1658 NM_001735.2_4651-4669_s 4651-4669CUGACAAUCUCUGCAGAGA 1090 UCUCUGCAGAGAUUGUCAG 1659NM_001735.2_4663-4681_s 4663-4681 GCAGAGACAAGAAAACAAA 1091UUUGUUUUCUUGUCUCUGC 1660 NM_001735.2_4670-4688_s 4670-4688CAAGAAAACAAACAGCAUG 1092 CAUGCUGUUUGUUUUCUUG 1661NM_001735.2_4681-4699_s 4681-4699 ACAGCAUGUAAACCAGAGA 1093UCUCUGGUUUACAUGCUGU 1662 NM_001735.2_4693-4711_s 4693-4711CCAGAGAUUGCAUAUGCUU 1094 AAGCAUAUGCAAUCUCUGG 1663NM_001735.2_4702-4720_s 4702-4720 GCAUAUGCUUAUAAAGUUA 1095UAACUUUAUAAGCAUAUGC 1664 NM_001735.2_4710-4728_s 4710-4728UUAUAAAGUUAGCAUCACA 1096 UGUGAUGCUAACUUUAUAA 1665NM_001735.2_4722-4740_s 4722-4740 CAUCACAUCCAUCACUGUA 1097UACAGUGAUGGAUGUGAUG 1666 NM_001735.2_4733-4751_s 4733-4751UCACUGUAGAAAAUGUUUU 1098 AAAACAUUUUCUACAGUGA 1667NM_001735.2_4740-4758_s 4740-4758 AGAAAAUGUUUUUGUCAAG 1099CUUGACAAAAACAUUUUCU 1668 NM_001735.2_4750-4768_s 4750-4768UUUGUCAAGUACAAGGCAA 1100 UUGCCUUGUACUUGACAAA 1669NM_001735.2_4763-4781_s 4763-4781 AGGCAACCCUUCUGGAUAU 1101AUAUCCAGAAGGGUUGCCU 1670 NM_001735.2_4770-4788_s 4770-4788CCUUCUGGAUAUCUACAAA 1102 UUUGUAGAUAUCCAGAAGG 1671NM_001735.2_4779-4797_s 4779-4797 UAUCUACAAAACUGGGGAA 1103UUCCCCAGUUUUGUAGAUA 1672 NM_001735.2_4790-4808_s 4790-4808CUGGGGAAGCUGUUGCUGA 1104 UCAGCAACAGCUUCCCCAG 1673NM_001735.2_4799-4817_s 4799-4817 CUGUUGCUGAGAAAGACUC 1105GAGUCUUUCUCAGCAACAG 1674 NM_001735.2_4813-4831_s 4813-4831GACUCUGAGAUUACCUUCA 1106 UGAAGGUAAUCUCAGAGUC 1675NM_001735.2_4819-4837_s 4819-4837 GAGAUUACCUUCAUUAAAA 1107UUUUAAUGAAGGUAAUCUC 1676 NM_001735.2_4831-4849_s 4831-4849AUUAAAAAGGUAACCUGUA 1108 UACAGGUUACCUUUUUAAU 1677NM_001735.2_4841-4859_s 4841-4859 UAACCUGUACUAACGCUGA 1109UCAGCGUUAGUACAGGUUA 1678 NM_001735.2_4850-4868_s 4850-4868CUAACGCUGAGCUGGUAAA 1110 UUUACCAGCUCAGCGUUAG 1679NM_001735.2_4863-4881_s 4863-4881 GGUAAAAGGAAGACAGUAC 1111GUACUGUCUUCCUUUUACC 1680 NM_001735.2_4871-4889_s 4871-4889GAAGACAGUACUUAAUUAU 1112 AUAAUUAAGUACUGUCUUC 1681NM_001735.2_4881-4899_s 4881-4899 CUUAAUUAUGGGUAAAGAA 1113UUCUUUACCCAUAAUUAAG 1682 NM_001735.2_4893-4911_s 4893-4911UAAAGAAGCCCUCCAGAUA 1114 UAUCUGGAGGGCUUCUUUA 1683NM_001735.2_4902-4920_s 4902-4920 CCUCCAGAUAAAAUACAAU 1115AUUGUAUUUUAUCUGGAGG 1684 NM_001735.2_4912-4930_s 4912-4930AAAUACAAUUUCAGUUUCA 1116 UGAAACUGAAAUUGUAUUU 1685NM_001735.2_4923-4941_s 4923-4941 CAGUUUCAGGUACAUCUAC 1117GUAGAUGUACCUGAAACUG 1686 NM_001735.2_4931-4949_s 4931-4949GGUACAUCUACCCUUUAGA 1118 UCUAAAGGGUAGAUGUACC 1687NM_001735.2_4942-4960_s 4942-4960 CCUUUAGAUUCCUUGACCU 1119AGGUCAAGGAAUCUAAAGG 1688 NM_001735.2_4952-4970_s 4952-4970CCUUGACCUGGAUUGAAUA 1120 UAUUCAAUCCAGGUCAAGG 1689NM_001735.2_4961-4979_s 4961-4979 GGAUUGAAUACUGGCCUAG 1121CUAGGCCAGUAUUCAAUCC 1690 NM_001735.2_4971-4989_s 4971-4989CUGGCCUAGAGACACAACA 1122 UGUUGUGUCUCUAGGCCAG 1691NM_001735.2_4979-4997_s 4979-4997 GAGACACAACAUGUUCAUC 1123GAUGAACAUGUUGUGUCUC 1692 NM_001735.2_4991-5009_s 4991-5009GUUCAUCGUGUCAAGCAUU 1124 AAUGCUUGACACGAUGAAC 1693NM_001735.2_5000-5018_s 5000-5018 GUCAAGCAUUUUUAGCUAA 1125UUAGCUAAAAAUGCUUGAC 1694 NM_001735.2_5013-5031_s 5013-5031AGCUAAUUUAGAUGAAUUU 1126 AAAUUCAUCUAAAUUAGCU 1695NM_001735.2_5022-5040_s 5022-5040 AGAUGAAUUUGCCGAAGAU 1127AUCUUCGGCAAAUUCAUCU 1696 NM_001735.2_5033-5051_s 5033-5051CCGAAGAUAUCUUUUUAAA 1128 UUUAAAAAGAUAUCUUCGG 1697NM_001735.2_5043-5061_s 5043-5061 CUUUUUAAAUGGAUGCUAA 1129UUAGCAUCCAUUUAAAAAG 1698 NM_001735.2_5053-5071_s 5053-5071GGAUGCUAAAAUUCCUGAA 1130 UUCAGGAAUUUUAGCAUCC 1699NM_001735.2_5059-5077_s 5059-5077 UAAAAUUCCUGAAGUUCAG 1131CUGAACUUCAGGAAUUUUA 1700 NM_001735.2_5071-5089_s 5071-5089AGUUCAGCUGCAUACAGUU 1132 AACUGUAUGCAGCUGAACU 1701NM_001735.2_5080-5098_s 5080-5098 GCAUACAGUUUGCACUUAU 1133AUAAGUGCAAACUGUAUGC 1702 NM_001735.2_5093-5111_s 5093-5111ACUUAUGGACUCCUGUUGU 1134 ACAACAGGAGUCCAUAAGU 1703NM_001735.2_5099-5117_s 5099-5117 GGACUCCUGUUGUUGAAGU 1135ACUUCAACAACAGGAGUCC 1704 NM_001735.2_5109-5127_s 5109-5127UGUUGAAGUUCGUUUUUUU 1136 AAAAAAACGAACUUCAACA 1705NM_001735.2_5122-5140_s 5122-5140 UUUUUUGUUUUCUUCUUUU 1137AAAAGAAGAAAACAAAAAA 1706 NM_001735.2_5132-5150_s 5132-5150UCUUCUUUUUUUAAACAUU 1138 AAUGUUUAAAAAAAGAAGA 1707NM_001735.2_5139-5157_s 5139-5157 UUUUUAAACAUUCAUAGCU 1139AGCUAUGAAUGUUUAAAAA 1708 NM_001735.2_5152-5170_s 5152-5170AUAGCUGGUCUUAUUUGUA 1140 UACAAAUAAGACCAGCUAU 1709NM_001735.2_5159-5177_s 5159-5177 GUCUUAUUUGUAAAGCUCA 1141UGAGCUUUACAAAUAAGAC 1710 NM_001735.2_5170-5188_s 5170-5188AAAGCUCACUUUACUUAGA 1142 UCUAAGUAAAGUGAGCUUU 1711NM_001735.2_5182-5200_s 5182-5200 ACUUAGAAUUAGUGGCACU 1143AGUGCCACUAAUUCUAAGU 1712 NM_001735.2_5192-5210_s 5192-5210AGUGGCACUUGCUUUUAUU 1144 AAUAAAAGCAAGUGCCACU 1713NM_001735.2_5202-5220_s 5202-5220 GCUUUUAUUAGAGAAUGAU 1145AUCAUUCUCUAAUAAAAGC 1714 NM_001735.2_5212-5230_s 5212-5230GAGAAUGAUUUCAAAUGCU 1146 AGCAUUUGAAAUCAUUCUC 1715NM_001735.2_5220-5238_s 5220-5238 UUUCAAAUGCUGUAACUUU 1147AAAGUUACAGCAUUUGAAA 1716 NM_001735.2_5231-5249_s 5231-5249GUAACUUUCUGAAAUAACA 1148 UGUUAUUUCAGAAAGUUAC 1717NM_001735.2_5241-5259_s 5241-5259 GAAAUAACAUGGCCUUGGA 1149UCCAAGGCCAUGUUAUUUC 1718 NM_001735.2_5253-5271_s 5253-5271CCUUGGAGGGCAUGAAGAC 1150 GUCUUCAUGCCCUCCAAGG 1719NM_001735.2_5259-5277_s 5259-5277 AGGGCAUGAAGACAGAUAC 1151GUAUCUGUCUUCAUGCCCU 1720 NM_001735.2_5273-5291_s 5273-5291GAUACUCCUCCAAGGUUAU 1152 AUAACCUUGGAGGAGUAUC 1721NM_001735.2_5279-5297_s 5279-5297 CCUCCAAGGUUAUUGGACA 1153UGUCCAAUAACCUUGGAGG 1722 NM_001735.2_5293-5311_s 5293-5311GGACACCGGAAACAAUAAA 1154 UUUAUUGUUUCCGGUGUCC 1723NM_001735.2_5301-5319_s 5301-5319 GAAACAAUAAAUUGGAACA 1155UGUUCCAAUUUAUUGUUUC 1724 NM_001735.2_5311-5329_s 5311-5329AUUGGAACACCUCCUCAAA 1156 UUUGAGGAGGUGUUCCAAU 1725NM_001735.2_5322-5340_s 5322-5340 UCCUCAAACCUACCACUCA 1157UGAGUGGUAGGUUUGAGGA 1726 NM_001735.2_5331-5349_s 5331-5349CUACCACUCAGGAAUGUUU 1158 AAACAUUCCUGAGUGGUAG 1727NM_001735.2_5343-5361_s 5343-5361 AAUGUUUGCUGGGGCCGAA 1159UUCGGCCCCAGCAAACAUU 1728 NM_001735.2_5349-5367_s 5349-5367UGCUGGGGCCGAAAGAACA 1160 UGUUCUUUCGGCCCCAGCA 1729NM_001735.2_5360-5378_s 5360-5378 AAAGAACAGUCCAUUGAAA 1161UUUCAAUGGACUGUUCUUU 1730 NM_001735.2_5371-5389_s 5371-5389CAUUGAAAGGGAGUAUUAC 1162 GUAAUACUCCCUUUCAAUG 1731NM_001735.2_5380-5398_s 5380-5398 GGAGUAUUACAAAAACAUG 1163CAUGUUUUUGUAAUACUCC 1732 NM_001735.2_5391-5409_s 5391-5409AAAACAUGGCCUUUGCUUG 1164 CAAGCAAAGGCCAUGUUUU 1733NM_001735.2_5399-5417_s 5399-5417 GCCUUUGCUUGAAAGAAAA 1165UUUUCUUUCAAGCAAAGGC 1734 NM_001735.2_5409-5427_s 5409-5427GAAAGAAAAUACCAAGGAA 1166 UUCCUUGGUAUUUUCUUUC 1735NM_001735.2_5420-5438_s 5420-5438 CCAAGGAACAGGAAACUGA 1167UCAGUUUCCUGUUCCUUGG 1736 NM_001735.2_5433-5451_s 5433-5451AACUGAUCAUUAAAGCCUG 1168 CAGGCUUUAAUGAUCAGUU 1737NM_001735.2_5441-5459_s 5441-5459 AUUAAAGCCUGAGUUUGCU 1169AGCAAACUCAGGCUUUAAU 1738

Example 5 In Vivo C5 Silencing

Groups of three female cynomolgus macaques were treated with C5-siRNAAD-58641 subcutaneously in the scapular and mid-dorsal areas of the backat 2.5 mg/kg or 5 mg/kg doses or a vehicle control. Two rounds of dosingwere administered with eight doses in each round given every third day.Serum C5 was collected and evaluated using an ELISA assay specific forC5 detection (Abcam) at the indicated time points (FIG. 13). C5 levelswere normalized to the average of three pre-dose samples. Samplescollected prior to dosing, and on day 23 (24 hours after the last doseadministered in the first round of treatment) were analyzed by completeserum chemistry, hematology and coagulation panels.

Analysis of serum C5 protein levels relative to pre-treatment serum C5protein levels demonstrated that the 5 mg/kg AD-58641 dosing regimenreduced serum C5 protein levels up to 98% (FIG. 12). The average serumC5 levels were reduced by 97% at the nadir, indicating that the majorityof circulating C5 is hepatic in origin. There was potent, dose-dependentand durable knock-down of serum C5 protein levels with subcutaneousadministration of AD-58641. No changes in hematology, serum chemistry orcoagulation parameters were identified 24 hours after the first round ofdosing.

Serum hemolytic activity was also analyzed using a sensitized sheeperythrocyte assay to measure classical pathway activity. The percenthemolysis was calculated relative to maximal hemolysis and to backgroundhemolysis in control samples. Mean hemolysis values +/− the SEM forthree animals were calculated and analyzed (FIG. 13). Hemolysis wasreduced up to 94% in the 5 mg/kg dosing regimen with an averageinhibition of 92% at the nadir. The reduction in hemolysis wasmaintained for greater than two weeks following the last dose.

Example 6 In Vitro Screening of Additional siRNAs

The C5 sense and antisense strand sequences shown in Table 20 weremodified at the 3′-terminus with a short sequence of deoxy-thyminenucleotides (dT) (Table 21). The in vitro efficacy of duplexescomprising the sense and anti sense sequences listed in Table 21 wasdetermined using the following methods.

Cell Culture and Transfections

Hep3B cells (ATCC, Manassas, Va.) were grown to near confluence at 37°C. in an atmosphere of 5% CO₂ in EMEM (ATCC) supplemented with 10% FBS,before being released from the plate by trypsinization. Transfection wascarried out by adding Sal of Opti-MEM plus 0.1 μl of LipofectamineRNAiMax per well (Invitrogen, Carlsbad Calif. cat #13778-150) to 5 μl ofsiRNA duplexes per well into a 384-well plate and incubated at roomtemperature for 15 minutes. 40 μl of complete growth media containing˜5×10³ Hep3B cells were then added to the siRNA mixture. Cells wereincubated for 24 hours prior to RNA purification. Experiments wereperformed at 10nM final duplex concentration.

Total RNA Isolation Using DYNABEADS mRNA Isolation Kit (Invitrogen, Part#: 610-12)

RNA isolation was performed using a semi-automated process of a BiotekEL 405 washer. Briefly, cells were lysed in 75 μl of Lysis/BindingBuffer containing 2 ul of Dynabeads, then mixed for 10 minutes onsetting 7 of an electromagnetic shaker (Union Scientific). Magneticbeads were captured using magnetic stand and the supernatant wasremoved. After removing supernatant, magnetic beads were washed with 90μl Wash Buffer A, followed by 90 μl of Wash buffer B. Beads were thenwashed twice with 100 ul of Elution buffer which was then aspirated andcDNA generated directly on bead bound RNA in the 384 well plate.

cDNA Synthesis Using ABI High Capacity cDNA Reverse Transcription Kit(Applied Biosystems, Foster City, Calif., Cat #4368813)

A master mix of 2 μl 10× Buffer, 0.8 μl 125× dNTPs, 2 μl Random primers,1 μl Reverse Transcriptase, 1 μl RNase inhibitor and 3.2 μl of H₂O perreaction were added directly to the bead bound RNA in the 384 wellplates used for RNA isolation. Plates were then shaken on anelectromagnetic shaker for 10 minutes and then placed in a 37° C.incubator for 2 hours. Following this incubation, plates were place on ashake in an 80° C. incubator for 7 minutes to inactivate the enzyme andelute the RNA/cDNA from the beads.

Real Time PCR

2 μl of cDNA were added to a master mix containing 0.5 μl GAPDH TaqManProbe (Applied Biosystems Cat #4326317E), 0.5 μl C5 TaqMan probe(Applied Biosystems cat #Hs00156197_M1) and 5 μl Lightcycler 480 probemaster mix (Roche Cat #04887301001) per well in a 384 well plates (Rochecat #04887301001). Real time PCR was done in a Roche LC480 Real Time PCRsystem (Roche). Each duplex was tested in in at least two independenttransfections and each transfection was assayed in duplicate.

To calculate relative fold change, real time data were analyzed usingthe ΔΔCt method and normalized to assays performed with cellstransfected with 10 nM AD-1955, or mock transfected cells.

Table 22 shows the results of a single dose screen in Hep3B cellstransfected with the indicated dT modified iRNAs. Data are expressed aspercent of message remaining relative to untreated cells.

TABLE 21 dT Modified C5 iRNAs SEQ ID Position in SEQ ID Duplex IDSense Sequence NO: NM _001735.2 Antisense Sequence NO: AD-61779.2UAUCCGUGGUUUCCUGCUAdTdT 1739    3-21 UAGCAGGAAACCACGGAUAdTdT 2306AD-61785.2 GGUUUCCUGCUACCUCCAAdTdT 1740   10-28 UUGGAGGUAGCAGGAAACCdTdT2307 AD-61791.2 CCUCCAACCAUGGGCCUUUdTdT 1741   22-40AAAGGCCCAUGGUUGGAGGdTdT 2308 AD-61797.2 GGGCCUUUUGGGAAUACUUdTdT 1742  33-51 AAGUAUUCCCAAAAGGCCCdTdT 2309 AD-61803.2 GGAAUACUUUGUUUUUUAAdTdT1743   43-61 UUAAAAAACAAAGUAUUCCdTdT 2310 AD-61809.2CUUUGUUUUUUAAUCUUCCdTdT 1744   49-67 GGAAGAUUAAAAAACAAAGdTdT 2311AD-61815.2 CUUCCUGGGGAAAACCUGGdTdT 1745   63-81 CCAGGUUUUCCCCAGGAAGdTdT2312 AD-61821.2 GGAAAACCUGGGGACAGGAdTdT 1746   71-89UCCUGUCCCCAGGUUUUCCdTdT 2313 AD-61780.2 GGGACAGGAGCAAACAUAUdTdT 1747  81-99 AUAUGUUUGCUCCUGUCCCdTdT 2314 AD-61786.2 CAAACAUAUGUCAUUUCAGdTdT1748   91-109 CUGAAAUGACAUAUGUUUGdTdT 2315 AD-61792.2CAUUUCAGCACCAAAAAUAdTdT 1749  102-120 UAUUUUUGGUGCUGAAAUGdTdT 2316AD-61798.2 GCACCAAAAAUAUUCCGUGdTdT 1750  109-127 CACGGAAUAUUUUUGGUGCdTdT2317 AD-61804.2 CCGUGUUGGAGCAUCUGAAdTdT 1751  123-141UUCAGAUGCUCCAACACGGdTdT 2318 AD-61810.2 GGAGCAUCUGAAAAUAUUGdTdT 1752 130-148 CAAUAUUUUCAGAUGCUCCdTdT 2319 AD-61816.2 GAAAAUAUUGUGAUUCAAGdTdT1753  139-157 CUUGAAUCACAAUAUUUUCdTdT 2320 AD-61822.2GAUUCAAGUUUAUGGAUACdTdT 1754  150-168 GUAUCCAUAAACUUGAAUCdTdT 2321AD-61781.2 GGAUACACUGAAGCAUUUGdTdT 1755  163-181 CAAAUGCUUCAGUGUAUCCdTdT2322 AD-61787.2 GAAGCAUUUGAUGCAACAAdTdT 1756  172-190UUGUUGCAUCAAAUGCUUCdTdT 2323 AD-61793.2 UGCAACAAUCUCUAUUAAAdTdT 1757 183-201 UUUAAUAGAGAUUGUUGCAdTdT 2324 AD-61799.2 AAUCUCUAUUAAAAGUUAUdTdT1758  189-207 AUAACUUUUAAUAGAGAUUdTdT 2325 AD-61805.2AAGUUAUCCUGAUAAAAAAdTdT 1759  201-219 UUUUUUAUCAGGAUAACUUdTdT 2326AD-61811.2 CUGAUAAAAAAUUUAGUUAdTdT 1760  209-227 UAACUAAAUUUUUUAUCAGdTdT2327 AD-61817.2 UUAGUUACUCCUCAGGCCAdTdT 1761  221-239UGGCCUGAGGAGUAACUAAdTdT 2328 AD-61823.2 CCUCAGGCCAUGUUCAUUUdTdT 1762 230-248 AAAUGAACAUGGCCUGAGGdTdT 2329 AD-61782.2 UUCAUUUAUCCUCAGAGAAdTdT1763  242-260 UUCUCUGAGGAUAAAUGAAdTdT 2330 AD-61788.2CUCAGAGAAUAAAUUCCAAdTdT 1764  252-270 UUGGAAUUUAUUCUCUGAGdTdT 2331AD-61794.2 AAUAAAUUCCAAAACUCUGdTdT 1765  259-277 CAGAGUUUUGGAAUUUAUUdTdT2332 AD-61800.2 CUCUGCAAUCUUAACAAUAdTdT 1766  273-291UAUUGUUAAGAUUGCAGAGdTdT 2333 AD-61806.2 CUUAACAAUACAACCAAAAdTdT 1767 282-300 UUUUGGUUGUAUUGUUAAGdTdT 2334 AD-61812.2 CAACCAAAACAAUUGCCUGdTdT1768  292-310 CAGGCAAUUGUUUUGGUUGdTdT 2335 AD-61818.2CAAUUGCCUGGAGGACAAAdTdT 1769  301-319 UUUGUCCUCCAGGCAAUUGdTdT 2336AD-61824.2 GGACAAAACCCAGUUUCUUdTdT 1770  313-331 AAGAAACUGGGUUUUGUCCdTdT2337 AD-61783.2 CCAGUUUCUUAUGUGUAUUdTdT 1771  322-340AAUACACAUAAGAAACUGGdTdT 2338 AD-61789.2 AUGUGUAUUUGGAAGUUGUdTdT 1772 332-350 ACAACUUCCAAAUACACAUdTdT 2339 AD-61795.2 GGAAGUUGUAUCAAAGCAUdTdT1773  342-360 AUGCUUUGAUACAACUUCCdTdT 2340 AD-61801.2GUAUCAAAGCAUUUUUCAAdTdT 1774  349-367 UUGAAAAAUGCUUUGAUACdTdT 2341AD-61807.2 UUUUCAAAAUCAAAAAGAAdTdT 1775  361-379 UUCUUUUUGAUUUUGAAAAdTdT2342 AD-61813.2 CAAAAAGAAUGCCAAUAACdTdT 1776  371-389GUUAUUGGCAUUCUUUUUGdTdT 2343 AD-61819.2 GCCAAUAACCUAUGACAAUdTdT 1777 381-399 AUUGUCAUAGGUUAUUGGCdTdT 2344 AD-61825.2 CCUAUGACAAUGGAUUUCUdTdT1778  389-407 AGAAAUCCAUUGUCAUAGGdTdT 2345 AD-61784.2UGGAUUUCUCUUCAUUCAUdTdT 1779  399-417 AUGAAUGAAGAGAAAUCCAdTdT 2346AD-61790.2 CAUUCAUACAGACAAACCUdTdT 1780  411-429 AGGUUUGUCUGUAUGAAUGdTdT2347 AD-61796.2 CAGACAAACCUGUUUAUACdTdT 1781  419-437GUAUAAACAGGUUUGUCUGdTdT 2348 AD-61802.2 GUUUAUACUCCAGACCAGUdTdT 1782 430-448 ACUGGUCUGGAGUAUAAACdTdT 2349 AD-61808.2 AGACCAGUCAGUAAAAGUUdTdT1783  441-459 AACUUUUACUGACUGGUCUdTdT 2350 AD-61814.2AGUAAAAGUUAGAGUUUAUdTdT 1784  450-468 AUAAACUCUAACUUUUACUdTdT 2351AD-61820.2 AGAGUUUAUUCGUUGAAUGdTdT 1785  460-478 CAUUCAACGAAUAAACUCUdTdT2352 AD-61826.2 CGUUGAAUGACGACUUGAAdTdT 1786  470-488UUCAAGUCGUCAUUCAACGdTdT 2353 AD-61832.2 CUUGAAGCCAGCCAAAAGAdTdT 1787 483-501 UCUUUUGGCUGGCUUCAAGdTdT 2354 AD-61838.2 CCAGCCAAAAGAGAAACUGdTdT1788  490-508 CAGUUUCUCUUUUGGCUGGdTdT 2355 AD-61844.2AAACUGUCUUAACUUUCAUdTdT 1789  503-521 AUGAAAGUUAAGACAGUUUdTdT 2356AD-61850.2 AACUUUCAUAGAUCCUGAAdTdT 1790  513-531 UUCAGGAUCUAUGAAAGUUdTdT2357 AD-61856.2 CAUAGAUCCUGAAGGAUCAdTdT 1791  519-537UGAUCCUUCAGGAUCUAUGdTdT 2358 AD-61862.2 GAAGGAUCAGAAGUUGACAdTdT 1792 529-547 UGUCAACUUCUGAUCCUUCdTdT 2359 AD-61868.2 UGACAUGGUAGAAGAAAUUdTdT1793  543-561 AAUUUCUUCUACCAUGUCAdTdT 2360 AD-61827.2GAAGAAAUUGAUCAUAUUGdTdT 1794  553-571 CAAUAUGAUCAAUUUCUUCdTdT 2361AD-61833.2 GAUCAUAUUGGAAUUAUCUdTdT 1795  562-580 AGAUAAUUCCAAUAUGAUCdTdT2362 AD-61839.2 GGAAUUAUCUCUUUUCCUGdTdT 1796  571-589CAGGAAAAGAGAUAAUUCCdTdT 2363 AD-61845.2 CUCUUUUCCUGACUUCAAGdTdT 1797 579-597 CUUGAAGUCAGGAAAAGAGdTdT 2364 AD-61851.2 ACUUCAAGAUUCCGUCUAAdTdT1798  590-608 UUAGACGGAAUCUUGAAGUdTdT 2365 AD-61857.2CCGUCUAAUCCUAGAUAUGdTdT 1799  601-619 CAUAUCUAGGAUUAGACGGdTdT 2366AD-61863.2 CCUAGAUAUGGUAUGUGGAdTdT 1800  610-628 UCCACAUACCAUAUCUAGGdTdT2367 AD-61869.2 UGUGGACGAUCAAGGCUAAdTdT 1801  623-641UUAGCCUUGAUCGUCCACAdTdT 2368 AD-61828.2 CGAUCAAGGCUAAAUAUAAdTdT 1802 629-647 UUAUAUUUAGCCUUGAUCGdTdT 2369 AD-61834.2 AUAUAAAGAGGACUUUUCAdTdT1803  642-660 UGAAAAGUCCUCUUUAUAUdTdT 2370 AD-61840.2GAGGACUUUUCAACAACUGdTdT 1804  649-667 CAGUUGUUGAAAAGUCCUCdTdT 2371AD-61846.2 CAACUGGAACCGCAUAUUUdTdT 1805  662-680 AAAUAUGCGGUUCCAGUUGdTdT2372 AD-61852.2 CGCAUAUUUUGAAGUUAAAdTdT 1806  672-690UUUAACUUCAAAAUAUGCGdTdT 2373 AD-61858.2 AAGUUAAAGAAUAUGUCUUdTdT 1807 683-701 AAGACAUAUUCUUUAACUUdTdT 2374 AD-61864.2 GAAUAUGUCUUGCCACAUUdTdT1808  691-709 AAUGUGGCAAGACAUAUUCdTdT 2375 AD-61870.2CCACAUUUUUCUGUCUCAAdTdT 1809  703-721 UUGAGACAGAAAAAUGUGGdTdT 2376AD-61829.2 CUGUCUCAAUCGAGCCAGAdTdT 1810  713-731 UCUGGCUCGAUUGAGACAGdTdT2377 AD-61835.2 CAAUCGAGCCAGAAUAUAAdTdT 1811  719-737UUAUAUUCUGGCUCGAUUGdTdT 2378 AD-61841.2 GAAUAUAAUUUCAUUGGUUdTdT 1812 730-748 AACCAAUGAAAUUAUAUUCdTdT 2379 AD-61847.2 AUUGGUUACAAGAACUUUAdTdT1813  742-760 UAAAGUUCUUGUAACCAAUdTdT 2380 AD-61853.2AGAACUUUAAGAAUUUUGAdTdT 1814  752-770 UCAAAAUUCUUAAAGUUCUdTdT 2381AD-61859.2 GAAUUUUGAAAUUACUAUAdTdT 1815  762-780 UAUAGUAAUUUCAAAAUUCdTdT2382 AD-61865.2 GAAAUUACUAUAAAAGCAAdTdT 1816  769-787UUGCUUUUAUAGUAAUUUCdTdT 2383 AD-61871.2 AAAGCAAGAUAUUUUUAUAdTdT 1817 781-799 UAUAAAAAUAUCUUGCUUUdTdT 2384 AD-61830.2 AUAUUUUUAUAAUAAAGUAdTdT1818  789-807 UACUUUAUUAUAAAAAUAUdTdT 2385 AD-61836.2AAGUAGUCACUGAGGCUGAdTdT 1819  803-821 UCAGCCUCAGUGACUACUUdTdT 2386AD-61842.2 CACUGAGGCUGACGUUUAUdTdT 1820  810-828 AUAAACGUCAGCCUCAGUGdTdT2387 AD-61848.2 CGUUUAUAUCACAUUUGGAdTdT 1821  822-840UCCAAAUGUGAUAUAAACGdTdT 2388 AD-61854.2 CACAUUUGGAAUAAGAGAAdTdT 1822 831-849 UUCUCUUAUUCCAAAUGUGdTdT 2389 AD-61860.2 AAUAAGAGAAGACUUAAAAdTdT1823  840-858 UUUUAAGUCUUCUCUUAUUdTdT 2390 AD-61866.2CUUAAAAGAUGAUCAAAAAdTdT 1824  852-870 UUUUUGAUCAUCUUUUAAGdTdT 2391AD-61872.2 GAUGAUCAAAAAGAAAUGAdTdT 1825  859-877 UCAUUUCUUUUUGAUCAUCdTdT2392 AD-61831.2 AAAUGAUGCAAACAGCAAUdTdT 1826  872-890AUUGCUGUUUGCAUCAUUUdTdT 2393 AD-61837.2 ACAGCAAUGCAAAACACAAdTdT 1827 883-901 UUGUGUUUUGCAUUGCUGUdTdT 2394 AD-61843.2 AAAACACAAUGUUGAUAAAdTdT1828  893-911 UUUAUCAACAUUGUGUUUUdTdT 2395 AD-61849.2CAAUGUUGAUAAAUGGAAUdTdT 1829  899-917 AUUCCAUUUAUCAACAUUGdTdT 2396AD-61855.2 GGAAUUGCUCAAGUCACAUdTdT 1830  913-931 AUGUGACUUGAGCAAUUCCdTdT2397 AD-61861.2 GCUCAAGUCACAUUUGAUUdTdT 1831  919-937AAUCAAAUGUGACUUGAGCdTdT 2398 AD-61867.2 AUUUGAUUCUGAAACAGCAdTdT 1832 930-948 UGCUGUUUCAGAAUCAAAUdTdT 2399 AD-62062.1 UGAAACAGCAGUCAAAGAAdTdT1833  939-957 UUCUUUGACUGCUGUUUCAdTdT 2400 AD-62068.1CAAAGAACUGUCAUACUACdTdT 1834  951-969 GUAGUAUGACAGUUCUUUGdTdT 2401AD-62074.1 CAUACUACAGUUUAGAAGAdTdT 1835  962-980 UCUUCUAAACUGUAGUAUGdTdT2402 AD-62080.1 CAGUUUAGAAGAUUUAAACdTdT 1836  969-987GUUUAAAUCUUCUAAACUGdTdT 2403 AD-62086.1 UAAACAACAAGUACCUUUAdTdT 1837 983-1001 UAAAGGUACUUGUUGUUUAdTdT 2404 AD-62092.1CAAGUACCUUUAUAUUGCUdTdT 1838  990-1008 AGCAAUAUAAAGGUACUUGdTdT 2405AD-62098.1 UAUUGCUGUAACAGUCAUAdTdT 1839 1002-1020UAUGACUGUUACAGCAAUAdTdT 2406 AD-62104.1 AACAGUCAUAGAGUCUACAdTdT 18401011-1029 UGUAGACUCUAUGACUGUUdTdT 2407 AD-62063.1AGAGUCUACAGGUGGAUUUdTdT 1841 1020-1038 AAAUCCACCUGUAGACUCUdTdT 2408AD-62069.1 GGAUUUUCUGAAGAGGCAGdTdT 1842 1033-1051CUGCCUCUUCAGAAAAUCCdTdT 2409 AD-62075.1 GAAGAGGCAGAAAUACCUGdTdT 18431042-1060 CAGGUAUUUCUGCCUCUUCdTdT 2410 AD-62081.1AGAAAUACCUGGCAUCAAAdTdT 1844 1050-1068 UUUGAUGCCAGGUAUUUCUdTdT 2411AD-62087.1 GCAUCAAAUAUGUCCUCUCdTdT 1845 1061-1079GAGAGGACAUAUUUGAUGCdTdT 2412 AD-62093.1 UGUCCUCUCUCCCUACAAAdTdT 18461071-1089 UUUGUAGGGAGAGAGGACAdTdT 2413 AD-62099.1GAAUUUGGUUGCUACUCCUdTdT 1847 1092-1110 AGGAGUAGCAACCAAAUUCdTdT 2414AD-62105.1 GCUACUCCUCUUUUCCUGAdTdT 1848 1102-1120UCAGGAAAAGAGGAGUAGCdTdT 2415 AD-62064.1 CUCUUUUCCUGAAGCCUGGdTdT 18491109-1127 CCAGGCUUCAGGAAAAGAGdTdT 2416 AD-62070.1CCUGGGAUUCCAUAUCCCAdTdT 1850 1123-1141 UGGGAUAUGGAAUCCCAGGdTdT 2417AD-62076.1 CAUAUCCCAUCAAGGUGCAdTdT 1851 1133-1151UGCACCUUGAUGGGAUAUGdTdT 2418 AD-62082.1 CCAUCAAGGUGCAGGUUAAdTdT 18521139-1157 UUAACCUGCACCUUGAUGGdTdT 2419 AD-62088.1CAGGUUAAAGAUUCGCUUGdTdT 1853 1150-1168 CAAGCGAAUCUUUAACCUGdTdT 2420AD-62094.1 UUCGCUUGACCAGUUGGUAdTdT 1854 1161-1179UACCAACUGGUCAAGCGAAdTdT 2421 AD-62100.1 CCAGUUGGUAGGAGGAGUCdTdT 18551170-1188 GACUCCUCCUACCAACUGGdTdT 2422 AD-62106.1GGAGGAGUCCCAGUAACACdTdT 1856 1180-1198 GUGUUACUGGGACUCCUCCdTdT 2423AD-62065.1 CAGUAACACUGAAUGCACAdTdT 1857 1190-1208UGUGCAUUCAGUGUUACUGdTdT 2424 AD-62071.1 GAAUGCACAAACAAUUGAUdTdT 18581200-1218 AUCAAUUGUUUGUGCAUUCdTdT 2425 AD-62077.1AACAAUUGAUGUAAACCAAdTdT 1859 1209-1227 UUGGUUUACAUCAAUUGUUdTdT 2426AD-62083.1 UAAACCAAGAGACAUCUGAdTdT 1860 1220-1238UCAGAUGUCUCUUGGUUUAdTdT 2427 AD-62089.1 CAUCUGACUUGGAUCCAAGdTdT 18611232-1250 CUUGGAUCCAAGUCAGAUGdTdT 2428 AD-62095.1GAUCCAAGCAAAAGUGUAAdTdT 1862 1243-1261 UUACACUUUUGCUUGGAUCdTdT 2429AD-62101.1 CAAAAGUGUAACACGUGUUdTdT 1863 1251-1269AACACGUGUUACACUUUUGdTdT 2430 AD-62107.1 AACACGUGUUGAUGAUGGAdTdT 18641260-1278 UCCAUCAUCAACACGUGUUdTdT 2431 AD-62066.1UGAUGGAGUAGCUUCCUUUdTdT 1865 1272-1290 AAAGGAAGCUACUCCAUCAdTdT 2432AD-62072.1 GUAGCUUCCUUUGUGCUUAdTdT 1866 1279-1297UAAGCACAAAGGAAGCUACdTdT 2433 AD-62078.1 GCUUAAUCUCCCAUCUGGAdTdT 18671293-1311 UCCAGAUGGGAGAUUAAGCdTdT 2434 AD-62084.1CCAUCUGGAGUGACGGUGCdTdT 1868 1303-1321 GCACCGUCACUCCAGAUGGdTdT 2435AD-62090.1 UGACGGUGCUGGAGUUUAAdTdT 1869 1313-1331UUAAACUCCAGCACCGUCAdTdT 2436 AD-62096.1 GCUGGAGUUUAAUGUCAAAdTdT 18701320-1338 UUUGACAUUAAACUCCAGCdTdT 2437 AD-62102.1UGUCAAAACUGAUGCUCCAdTdT 1871 1332-1350 UGGAGCAUCAGUUUUGACAdTdT 2438AD-62108.1 GAUGCUCCAGAUCUUCCAGdTdT 1872 1342-1360CUGGAAGAUCUGGAGCAUCdTdT 2439 AD-62067.1 CAGAUCUUCCAGAAGAAAAdTdT 18731349-1367 UUUUCUUCUGGAAGAUCUGdTdT 2440 AD-62073.1AGAAAAUCAGGCCAGGGAAdTdT 1874 1362-1380 UUCCCUGGCCUGAUUUUCUdTdT 2441AD-62079.1 GGCCAGGGAAGGUUACCGAdTdT 1875 1371-1389UCGGUAACCUUCCCUGGCCdTdT 2442 AD-62085.1 GUUACCGAGCAAUAGCAUAdTdT 18761382-1400 UAUGCUAUUGCUCGGUAACdTdT 2443 AD-62091.1AUAGCAUACUCAUCUCUCAdTdT 1877 1393-1411 UGAGAGAUGAGUAUGCUAUdTdT 2444AD-62097.1 UACUCAUCUCUCAGCCAAAdTdT 1878 1399-1417UUUGGCUGAGAGAUGAGUAdTdT 2445 AD-62103.1 GCCAAAGUUACCUUUAUAUdTdT 18791412-1430 AUAUAAAGGUAACUUUGGCdTdT 2446 AD-62109.1CCUUUAUAUUGAUUGGACUdTdT 1880 1422-1440 AGUCCAAUCAAUAUAAAGGdTdT 2447AD-62115.1 GAUUGGACUGAUAACCAUAdTdT 1881 1432-1450UAUGGUUAUCAGUCCAAUCdTdT 2448 AD-62121.1 CUGAUAACCAUAAGGCUUUdTdT 18821439-1457 AAAGCCUUAUGGUUAUCAGdTdT 2449 AD-62127.1AGGCUUUGCUAGUGGGAGAdTdT 1883 1451-1469 UCUCCCACUAGCAAAGCCUdTdT 2450AD-62133.1 GUGGGAGAACAUCUGAAUAdTdT 1884 1462-1480UAUUCAGAUGUUCUCCCACdTdT 2451 AD-62139.1 CAUCUGAAUAUUAUUGUUAdTdT 18851471-1489 UAACAAUAAUAUUCAGAUGdTdT 2452 AD-62145.1UAUUAUUGUUACCCCCAAAdTdT 1886 1479-1497 UUUGGGGGUAACAAUAAUAdTdT 2453AD-62151.1 CCCAAAAGCCCAUAUAUUGdTdT 1887 1492-1510CAAUAUAUGGGCUUUUGGGdTdT 2454 AD-62110.1 CCAAAAGCCCAUAUAUUGAdTdT 18881493-1511 UCAAUAUAUGGGCUUUUGGdTdT 2455 AD-62116.1CAAAAGCCCAUAUAUUGACdTdT 1889 1494-1512 GUCAAUAUAUGGGCUUUUGdTdT 2456AD-62122.1 AAAAGCCCAUAUAUUGACAdTdT 1890 1495-1513UGUCAAUAUAUGGGCUUUUdTdT 2457 AD-62128.1 AAAGCCCAUAUAUUGACAAdTdT 18911496-1514 UUGUCAAUAUAUGGGCUUUdTdT 2458 AD-62134.1AAGCCCAUAUAUUGACAAAdTdT 1892 1497-1515 UUUGUCAAUAUAUGGGCUUdTdT 2459AD-62140.1 AGCCCAUAUAUUGACAAAAdTdT 1893 1498-1516UUUUGUCAAUAUAUGGGCUdTdT 2460 AD-62146.1 GCCCAUAUAUUGACAAAAUdTdT 18941499-1517 AUUUUGUCAAUAUAUGGGCdTdT 2461 AD-62152.1CCCAUAUAUUGACAAAAUAdTdT 1895 1500-1518 UAUUUUGUCAAUAUAUGGGdTdT 2462AD-62111.1 CCAUAUAUUGACAAAAUAAdTdT 1896 1501-1519UUAUUUUGUCAAUAUAUGGdTdT 2463 AD-62117.1 CAUAUAUUGACAAAAUAACdTdT 18971502-1520 GUUAUUUUGUCAAUAUAUGdTdT 2464 AD-62123.1AUAUAUUGACAAAAUAACUdTdT 1898 1503-1521 AGUUAUUUUGUCAAUAUAUdTdT 2465AD-62129.1 UAUAUUGACAAAAUAACUCdTdT 1899 1504-1522GAGUUAUUUUGUCAAUAUAdTdT 2466 AD-62135.1 AUAUUGACAAAAUAACUCAdTdT 19001505-1523 UGAGUUAUUUUGUCAAUAUdTdT 2467 AD-62141.1UAUUGACAAAAUAACUCACdTdT 1901 1506-1524 GUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAAUAdTdT 2468AD-62147.1 AUUGACAAAAUAACUCACUdTdT 1902 1507-1525AGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAAUdTdT 2469 AD-62153.1 UUGACAAAAUAACUCACUAdTdT 19031508-1526 UAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAAdTdT 2470 AD-62112.1UGACAAAAUAACUCACUAUdTdT 1904 1509-1527 AUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCAdTdT 2471AD-62118.1 GACAAAAUAACUCACUAUAdTdT 1905 1510-1528UAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUGUCdTdT 2472 AD-62124.1 AAAAUAACUCACUAUAAUUdTdT 19061513-1531 AAUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUUdTdT 2473 AD-62130.1AAAUAACUCACUAUAAUUAdTdT 1907 1514-1532 UAAUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUUdTdT 2474AD-62136.1 AAUAACUCACUAUAAUUACdTdT 1908 1515-1533GUAAUUAUAGUGAGUUAUUdTdT 2475 AD-62142.1 AUAACUCACUAUAAUUACUdTdT 19091516-1534 AGUAAUUAUAGUGAGUUAUdTdT 2476 AD-62148.1AACUCACUAUAAUUACUUGdTdT 1910 1518-1536 CAAGUAAUUAUAGUGAGUUdTdT 2477AD-62154.1 ACUCACUAUAAUUACUUGAdTdT 1911 1519-1537UCAAGUAAUUAUAGUGAGUdTdT 2478 AD-62113.1 CUCACUAUAAUUACUUGAUdTdT 19121520-1538 AUCAAGUAAUUAUAGUGAGdTdT 2479 AD-62119.1UCACUAUAAUUACUUGAUUdTdT 1913 1521-1539 AAUCAAGUAAUUAUAGUGAdTdT 2480AD-62125.1 ACUAUAAUUACUUGAUUUUdTdT 1914 1523-1541AAAAUCAAGUAAUUAUAGUdTdT 2481 AD-62131.1 CUAUAAUUACUUGAUUUUAdTdT 19151524-1542 UAAAAUCAAGUAAUUAUAGdTdT 2482 AD-62137.1UAUAAUUACUUGAUUUUAUdTdT 1916 1525-1543 AUAAAAUCAAGUAAUUAUAdTdT 2483AD-62143.1 AUAAUUACUUGAUUUUAUCdTdT 1917 1526-1544GAUAAAAUCAAGUAAUUAUdTdT 2484 AD-62149.1 UAAUUACUUGAUUUUAUCCdTdT 19181527-1545 GGAUAAAAUCAAGUAAUUAdTdT 2485 AD-62155.1AAUUACUUGAUUUUAUCCAdTdT 1919 1528-1546 UGGAUAAAAUCAAGUAAUUdTdT 2486AD-62114.1 AUUACUUGAUUUUAUCCAAdTdT 1920 1529-1547UUGGAUAAAAUCAAGUAAUdTdT 2487 AD-62120.1 UUAUCCAAGGGCAAAAUUAdTdT 19211540-1558 UAAUUUUGCCCUUGGAUAAdTdT 2488 AD-62126.1GCAAAAUUAUCCACUUUGGdTdT 1922 1550-1568 CCAAAGUGGAUAAUUUUGCdTdT 2489AD-62132.1 CACUUUGGCACGAGGGAGAdTdT 1923 1561-1579UCUCCCUCGUGCCAAAGUGdTdT 2490 AD-62138.1 CGAGGGAGAAAUUUUCAGAdTdT 19241571-1589 UCUGAAAAUUUCUCCCUCGdTdT 2491 AD-62144.1AUUUUCAGAUGCAUCUUAUdTdT 1925 1581-1599 AUAAGAUGCAUCUGAAAAUdTdT 2492AD-62150.1 GCAUCUUAUCAAAGUAUAAdTdT 1926 1591-1609UUAUACUUUGAUAAGAUGCdTdT 2493 AD-62156.1 CAAAGUAUAAACAUUCCAGdTdT 19271600-1618 CUGGAAUGUUUAUACUUUGdTdT 2494 AD-62162.1AUUCCAGUAACACAGAACAdTdT 1928 1612-1630 UGUUCUGUGUUACUGGAAUdTdT 2495AD-62168.1 CACAGAACAUGGUUCCUUCdTdT 1929 1622-1640GAAGGAACCAUGUUCUGUGdTdT 2496 AD-62174.1 GGUUCCUUCAUCCCGACUUdTdT 19301632-1650 AAGUCGGGAUGAAGGAACCdTdT 2497 AD-62180.1CCCGACUUCUGGUCUAUUAdTdT 1931 1643-1661 UAAUAGACCAGAAGUCGGGdTdT 2498AD-62186.1 GGUCUAUUACAUCGUCACAdTdT 1932 1653-1671UGUGACGAUGUAAUAGACCdTdT 2499 AD-62192.1 AUCGUCACAGGAGAACAGAdTdT 19331663-1681 UCUGUUCUCCUGUGACGAUdTdT 2500 AD-62198.1CAGGAGAACAGACAGCAGAdTdT 1934 1670-1688 UCUGCUGUCUGUUCUCCUGdTdT 2501AD-62157.1 CAGCAGAAUUAGUGUCUGAdTdT 1935 1682-1700UCAGACACUAAUUCUGCUGdTdT 2502 AD-62163.1 GUGUCUGAUUCAGUCUGGUdTdT 19361693-1711 ACCAGACUGAAUCAGACACdTdT 2503 AD-62169.1CAGUCUGGUUAAAUAUUGAdTdT 1937 1703-1721 UCAAUAUUUAACCAGACUGdTdT 2504AD-62175.1 GUUAAAUAUUGAAGAAAAAdTdT 1938 1710-1728UUUUUCUUCAAUAUUUAACdTdT 2505 AD-62181.1 AGAAAAAUGUGGCAACCAGdTdT 19391722-1740 CUGGUUGCCACAUUUUUCUdTdT 2506 AD-62187.1GCAACCAGCUCCAGGUUCAdTdT 1940 1733-1751 UGAACCUGGAGCUGGUUGCdTdT 2507AD-62193.1 GCUCCAGGUUCAUCUGUCUdTdT 1941 1740-1758AGACAGAUGAACCUGGAGCdTdT 2508 AD-62199.1 AUCUGUCUCCUGAUGCAGAdTdT 19421751-1769 UCUGCAUCAGGAGACAGAUdTdT 2509 AD-62158.1GAUGCAGAUGCAUAUUCUCdTdT 1943 1762-1780 GAGAAUAUGCAUCUGCAUCdTdT 2510AD-62164.1 GCAUAUUCUCCAGGCCAAAdTdT 1944 1771-1789UUUGGCCUGGAGAAUAUGCdTdT 2511 AD-62170.1 AGGCCAAACUGUGUCUCUUdTdT 19451782-1800 AAGAGACACAGUUUGGCCUdTdT 2512 AD-62176.1GUGUCUCUUAAUAUGGCAAdTdT 1946 1792-1810 UUGCCAUAUUAAGAGACACdTdT 2513AD-62182.1 UUAAUAUGGCAACUGGAAUdTdT 1947 1799-1817AUUCCAGUUGCCAUAUUAAdTdT 2514 AD-62188.1 AACUGGAAUGGAUUCCUGGdTdT 19481809-1827 CCAGGAAUCCAUUCCAGUUdTdT 2515 AD-62194.1UUCCUGGGUGGCAUUAGCAdTdT 1949 1821-1839 UGCUAAUGCCACCCAGGAAdTdT 2516AD-62200.1 GGCAUUAGCAGCAGUGGACdTdT 1950 1830-1848GUCCACUGCUGCUAAUGCCdTdT 2517 AD-62159.1 AGUGGACAGUGCUGUGUAUdTdT 19511842-1860 AUACACAGCACUGUCCACUdTdT 2518 AD-62165.1GCUGUGUAUGGAGUCCAAAdTdT 1952 1852-1870 UUUGGACUCCAUACACAGCdTdT 2519AD-62171.1 AGUCCAAAGAGGAGCCAAAdTdT 1953 1863-1881UUUGGCUCCUCUUUGGACUdTdT 2520 AD-62177.1 AGAGGAGCCAAAAAGCCCUdTdT 19541870-1888 AGGGCUUUUUGGCUCCUCUdTdT 2521 AD-62183.1AGCCCUUGGAAAGAGUAUUdTdT 1955 1883-1901 AAUACUCUUUCCAAGGGCUdTdT 2522AD-62189.1 AAGAGUAUUUCAAUUCUUAdTdT 1956 1893-1911UAAGAAUUGAAAUACUCUUdTdT 2523 AD-62195.1 UUUCAAUUCUUAGAGAAGAdTdT 19571900-1918 UCUUCUCUAAGAAUUGAAAdTdT 2524 AD-62201.1GAGAAGAGUGAUCUGGGCUdTdT 1958 1912-1930 AGCCCAGAUCACUCUUCUCdTdT 2525AD-62160.1 UGAUCUGGGCUGUGGGGCAdTdT 1959 1920-1938UGCCCCACAGCCCAGAUCAdTdT 2526 AD-62166.1 GGGGCAGGUGGUGGCCUCAdTdT 19601933-1951 UGAGGCCACCACCUGCCCCdTdT 2527 AD-62172.1GUGGCCUCAACAAUGCCAAdTdT 1961 1943-1961 UUGGCAUUGUUGAGGCCACdTdT 2528AD-62178.1 CAACAAUGCCAAUGUGUUCdTdT 1962 1950-1968GAACACAUUGGCAUUGUUGdTdT 2529 AD-62184.1 CAAUGUGUUCCACCUAGCUdTdT 19631959-1977 AGCUAGGUGGAACACAUUGdTdT 2530 AD-62190.1CACCUAGCUGGACUUACCUdTdT 1964 1969-1987 AGGUAAGUCCAGCUAGGUGdTdT 2531AD-62196.1 GACUUACCUUCCUCACUAAdTdT 1965 1979-1997UUAGUGAGGAAGGUAAGUCdTdT 2532 AD-62202.1 UCACUAAUGCAAAUGCAGAdTdT 19661991-2009 UCUGCAUUUGCAUUAGUGAdTdT 2533 AD-62161.1AAAUGCAGAUGACUCCCAAdTdT 1967 2001-2019 UUGGGAGUCAUCUGCAUUUdTdT 2534AD-62167.1 CUCCCAAGAAAAUGAUGAAdTdT 1968 2013-2031UUCAUCAUUUUCUUGGGAGdTdT 2535 AD-62173.1 CCUUGUAAAGAAAUUCUCAdTdT 19692032-2050 UGAGAAUUUCUUUACAAGGdTdT 2536 AD-62179.1AAUUCUCAGGCCAAGAAGAdTdT 1970 2043-2061 UCUUCUUGGCCUGAGAAUUdTdT 2537AD-62185.1 CCAAGAAGAACGCUGCAAAdTdT 1971 2053-2071UUUGCAGCGUUCUUCUUGGdTdT 2538 AD-62191.1 CGCUGCAAAAGAAGAUAGAdTdT 19722063-2081 UCUAUCUUCUUUUGCAGCGdTdT 2539 AD-62197.1AAAGAAGAUAGAAGAAAUAdTdT 1973 2070-2088 UAUUUCUUCUAUCUUCUUUdTdT 2540AD-62203.1 AGAAAUAGCUGCUAAAUAUdTdT 1974 2082-2100AUAUUUAGCAGCUAUUUCUdTdT 2541 AD-62209.1 GCUGCUAAAUAUAAACAUUdTdT 19752089-2107 AAUGUUUAUAUUUAGCAGCdTdT 2542 AD-62215.1ACAUUCAGUAGUGAAGAAAdTdT 1976 2103-2121 UUUCUUCACUACUGAAUGUdTdT 2543AD-62221.1 GUAGUGAAGAAAUGUUGUUdTdT 1977 2110-2128AACAACAUUUCUUCACUACdTdT 2544 AD-62227.1 AAAUGUUGUUACGAUGGAGdTdT 19782119-2137 CUCCAUCGUAACAACAUUUdTdT 2545 AD-62233.1CGAUGGAGCCUGCGUUAAUdTdT 1979 2130-2148 AUUAACGCAGGCUCCAUCGdTdT 2546AD-62239.1 CGUUAAUAAUGAUGAAACCdTdT 1980 2142-2160GGUUUCAUCAUUAUUAACGdTdT 2547 AD-62245.1 AUGAUGAAACCUGUGAGCAdTdT 19812150-2168 UGCUCACAGGUUUCAUCAUdTdT 2548 AD-62204.1CUGUGAGCAGCGAGCUGCAdTdT 1982 2160-2178 UGCAGCUCGCUGCUCACAGdTdT 2549AD-62210.1 CGAGCUGCACGGAUUAGUUdTdT 1983 2170-2188AACUAAUCCGUGCAGCUCGdTdT 2550 AD-62216.1 GGAUUAGUUUAGGGCCAAGdTdT 19842180-2198 CUUGGCCCUAAACUAAUCCdTdT 2551 AD-62222.1GGGCCAAGAUGCAUCAAAGdTdT 1985 2191-2209 CUUUGAUGCAUCUUGGCCCdTdT 2552AD-62228.1 CAUCAAAGCUUUCACUGAAdTdT 1986 2202-2220UUCAGUGAAAGCUUUGAUGdTdT 2553 AD-62234.1 GCUUUCACUGAAUGUUGUGdTdT 19872209-2227 CACAACAUUCAGUGAAAGCdTdT 2554 AD-62240.1AAUGUUGUGUCGUCGCAAGdTdT 1988 2219-2237 CUUGCGACGACACAACAUUdTdT 2555AD-62246.1 CGUCGCAAGCCAGCUCCGUdTdT 1989 2229-2247ACGGAGCUGGCUUGCGACGdTdT 2556 AD-62205.1 GCUCCGUGCUAAUAUCUCUdTdT 19902241-2259 AGAGAUAUUAGCACGGAGCdTdT 2557 AD-62211.1CUAAUAUCUCUCAUAAAGAdTdT 1991 2249-2267 UCUUUAUGAGAGAUAUUAGdTdT 2558AD-62217.1 AAAGACAUGCAAUUGGGAAdTdT 1992 2263-2281UUCCCAAUUGCAUGUCUUUdTdT 2559 AD-62223.1 CAAUUGGGAAGGCUACACAdTdT 19932272-2290 UGUGUAGCCUUCCCAAUUGdTdT 2560 AD-62229.1GCUACACAUGAAGACCCUGdTdT 1994 2283-2301 CAGGGUCUUCAUGUGUAGCdTdT 2561AD-62235.1 CAUGAAGACCCUGUUACCAdTdT 1995 2289-2307UGGUAACAGGGUCUUCAUGdTdT 2562 AD-62241.1 UACCAGUAAGCAAGCCAGAdTdT 19962303-2321 UCUGGCUUGCUUACUGGUAdTdT 2563 AD-62247.1AGCAAGCCAGAAAUUCGGAdTdT 1997 2311-2329 UCCGAAUUUCUGGCUUGCUdTdT 2564AD-62206.1 AGAAAUUCGGAGUUAUUUUdTdT 1998 2319-2337AAAAUAACUCCGAAUUUCUdTdT 2565 AD-62212.1 AGUUAUUUUCCAGAAAGCUdTdT 19992329-2347 AGCUUUCUGGAAAAUAACUdTdT 2566 AD-62218.1CAGAAAGCUGGUUGUGGGAdTdT 2000 2339-2357 UCCCACAACCAGCUUUCUGdTdT 2567AD-62224.1 GUGGGAAGUUCAUCUUGUUdTdT 2001 2352-2370AACAAGAUGAACUUCCCACdTdT 2568 AD-62230.1 UCAUCUUGUUCCCAGAAGAdTdT 20022361-2379 UCUUCUGGGAACAAGAUGAdTdT 2569 AD-62236.1CCAGAAGAAAACAGUUGCAdTdT 2003 2372-2390 UGCAACUGUUUUCUUCUGGdTdT 2570AD-62242.1 CAGUUGCAGUUUGCCCUACdTdT 2004 2383-2401GUAGGGCAAACUGCAACUGdTdT 2571 AD-62248.1 CAGUUUGCCCUACCUGAUUdTdT 20052389-2407 AAUCAGGUAGGGCAAACUGdTdT 2572 AD-62207.1CCUGAUUCUCUAACCACCUdTdT 2006 2401-2419 AGGUGGUUAGAGAAUCAGGdTdT 2573AD-62213.1 ACCACCUGGGAAAUUCAAGdTdT 2007 2413-2431CUUGAAUUUCCCAGGUGGUdTdT 2574 AD-62219.1 GAAAUUCAAGGCGUUGGCAdTdT 20082422-2440 UGCCAACGCCUUGAAUUUCdTdT 2575 AD-62225.1CGUUGGCAUUUCAAACACUdTdT 2009 2433-2451 AGUGUUUGAAAUGCCAACGdTdT 2576AD-62231.1 CAUUUCAAACACUGGUAUAdTdT 2010 2439-2457UAUACCAGUGUUUGAAAUGdTdT 2577 AD-62237.1 GUAUAUGUGUUGCUGAUACdTdT 20112453-2471 GUAUCAGCAACACAUAUACdTdT 2578 AD-62243.1UGCUGAUACUGUCAAGGCAdTdT 2012 2463-2481 UGCCUUGACAGUAUCAGCAdTdT 2579AD-62249.1 CUGUCAAGGCAAAGGUGUUdTdT 2013 2471-2489AACACCUUUGCCUUGACAGdTdT 2580 AD-62208.1 AGGUGUUCAAAGAUGUCUUdTdT 20142483-2501 AAGACAUCUUUGAACACCUdTdT 2581 AD-62214.1CAAAGAUGUCUUCCUGGAAdTdT 2015 2490-2508 UUCCAGGAAGACAUCUUUGdTdT 2582AD-62220.1 CUUCCUGGAAAUGAAUAUAdTdT 2016 2499-2517UAUAUUCAUUUCCAGGAAGdTdT 2583 AD-62226.1 GAAUAUACCAUAUUCUGUUdTdT 20172511-2529 AACAGAAUAUGGUAUAUUCdTdT 2584 AD-62232.1AUAUUCUGUUGUACGAGGAdTdT 2018 2520-2538 UCCUCGUACAACAGAAUAUdTdT 2585AD-62238.1 CGAGGAGAACAGAUCCAAUdTdT 2019 2533-2551AUUGGAUCUGUUCUCCUCGdTdT 2586 AD-62244.1 GAACAGAUCCAAUUGAAAGdTdT 20202539-2557 CUUUCAAUUGGAUCUGUUCdTdT 2587 AD-61874.1GAAAGGAACUGUUUACAACdTdT 2021 2553-2571 GUUGUAAACAGUUCCUUUCdTdT 2588AD-61880.1 ACUGUUUACAACUAUAGGAdTdT 2022 2560-2578UCCUAUAGUUGUAAACAGUdTdT 2589 AD-61886.1 AACUAUAGGACUUCUGGGAdTdT 20232569-2587 UCCCAGAAGUCCUAUAGUUdTdT 2590 AD-61892.1UGGGAUGCAGUUCUGUGUUdTdT 2024 2583-2601 AACACAGAACUGCAUCCCAdTdT 2591AD-61898.1 GUUCUGUGUUAAAAUGUCUdTdT 2025 2592-2610AGACAUUUUAACACAGAACdTdT 2592 AD-61904.1 UUAAAAUGUCUGCUGUGGAdTdT 20262600-2618 UCCACAGCAGACAUUUUAAdTdT 2593 AD-61910.1CUGUGGAGGGAAUCUGCACdTdT 2027 2612-2630 GUGCAGAUUCCCUCCACAGdTdT 2594AD-61916.1 GGAAUCUGCACUUCGGAAAdTdT 2028 2620-2638UUUCCGAAGUGCAGAUUCCdTdT 2595 AD-61875.1 CGGAAAGCCCAGUCAUUGAdTdT 20292633-2651 UCAAUGACUGGGCUUUCCGdTdT 2596 AD-61881.1CCAGUCAUUGAUCAUCAGGdTdT 2030 2641-2659 CCUGAUGAUCAAUGACUGGdTdT 2597AD-61887.1 CAUCAGGGCACAAAGUCCUdTdT 2031 2653-2671AGGACUUUGUGCCCUGAUGdTdT 2598 AD-61893.1 GGCACAAAGUCCUCCAAAUdTdT 20322659-2677 AUUUGGAGGACUUUGUGCCdTdT 2599 AD-61899.1CAAAUGUGUGCGCCAGAAAdTdT 2033 2673-2691 UUUCUGGCGCACACAUUUGdTdT 2600AD-61905.1 GCGCCAGAAAGUAGAGGGCdTdT 2034 2682-2700GCCCUCUACUUUCUGGCGCdTdT 2601 AD-61911.1 AGUAGAGGGCUCCUCCAGUdTdT 20352691-2709 ACUGGAGGAGCCCUCUACUdTdT 2602 AD-61917.1CCUCCAGUCACUUGGUGACdTdT 2036 2702-2720 GUCACCAAGUGACUGGAGGdTdT 2603AD-61876.1 UCACUUGGUGACAUUCACUdTdT 2037 2709-2727AGUGAAUGUCACCAAGUGAdTdT 2604 AD-61882.1 CAUUCACUGUGCUUCCUCUdTdT 20382720-2738 AGAGGAAGCACAGUGAAUGdTdT 2605 AD-61888.1GGAAAUUGGCCUUCACAACdTdT 2039 2739-2757 GUUGUGAAGGCCAAUUUCCdTdT 2606AD-61894.1 CUUCACAACAUCAAUUUUUdTdT 2040 2749-2767AAAAAUUGAUGUUGUGAAGdTdT 2607 AD-61900.1 AAUUUUUCACUGGAGACUUdTdT 20412761-2779 AAGUCUCCAGUGAAAAAUUdTdT 2608 AD-61906.1CUGGAGACUUGGUUUGGAAdTdT 2042 2770-2788 UUCCAAACCAAGUCUCCAGdTdT 2609AD-61912.1 GGUUUGGAAAAGAAAUCUUdTdT 2043 2780-2798AAGAUUUCUUUUCCAAACCdTdT 2610 AD-61918.1 AAUCUUAGUAAAAACAUUAdTdT 20442793-2811 UAAUGUUUUUACUAAGAUUdTdT 2611 AD-61877.1AAAAACAUUACGAGUGGUGdTdT 2045 2802-2820 CACCACUCGUAAUGUUUUUdTdT 2612AD-61883.1 GAGUGGUGCCAGAAGGUGUdTdT 2046 2813-2831ACACCUUCUGGCACCACUCdTdT 2613 AD-61889.1 AGAAGGUGUCAAAAGGGAAdTdT 20472823-2841 UUCCCUUUUGACACCUUCUdTdT 2614 AD-61895.1UGUCAAAAGGGAAAGCUAUdTdT 2048 2829-2847 AUAGCUUUCCCUUUUGACAdTdT 2615AD-61901.1 GCUAUUCUGGUGUUACUUUdTdT 2049 2843-2861AAAGUAACACCAGAAUAGCdTdT 2616 AD-61907.1 GUGUUACUUUGGAUCCUAGdTdT 20502852-2870 CUAGGAUCCAAAGUAACACdTdT 2617 AD-61913.1GGAUCCUAGGGGUAUUUAUdTdT 2051 2862-2880 AUAAAUACCCCUAGGAUCCdTdT 2618AD-61919.1 GGUAUUUAUGGUACCAUUAdTdT 2052 2872-2890UAAUGGUACCAUAAAUACCdTdT 2619 AD-61878.1 GUACCAUUAGCAGACGAAAdTdT 20532882-2900 UUUCGUCUGCUAAUGGUACdTdT 2620 AD-61884.1CAGACGAAAGGAGUUCCCAdTdT 2054 2892-2910 UGGGAACUCCUUUCGUCUGdTdT 2621AD-61890.1 AGGAGUUCCCAUACAGGAUdTdT 2055 2900-2918AUCCUGUAUGGGAACUCCUdTdT 2622 AD-61896.1 CAUACAGGAUACCCUUAGAdTdT 20562909-2927 UCUAAGGGUAUCCUGUAUGdTdT 2623 AD-61902.1CUUAGAUUUGGUCCCCAAAdTdT 2057 2922-2940 UUUGGGGACCAAAUCUAAGdTdT 2624AD-61908.1 UCCCCAAAACAGAAAUCAAdTdT 2058 2933-2951UUGAUUUCUGUUUUGGGGAdTdT 2625 AD-61914.1 ACAGAAAUCAAAAGGAUUUdTdT 20592941-2959 AAAUCCUUUUGAUUUCUGUdTdT 2626 AD-61920.1AAAGGAUUUUGAGUGUAAAdTdT 2060 2951-2969 UUUACACUCAAAAUCCUUUdTdT 2627AD-61879.1 AGUGUAAAAGGACUGCUUGdTdT 2061 2962-2980CAAGCAGUCCUUUUACACUdTdT 2628 AD-61885.1 AAGGACUGCUUGUAGGUGAdTdT 20622969-2987 UCACCUACAAGCAGUCCUUdTdT 2629 AD-61891.1GUAGGUGAGAUCUUGUCUGdTdT 2063 2980-2998 CAGACAAGAUCUCACCUACdTdT 2630AD-61897.1 AUCUUGUCUGCAGUUCUAAdTdT 2064 2989-3007UUAGAACUGCAGACAAGAUdTdT 2631 AD-61903.1 GUUCUAAGUCAGGAAGGCAdTdT 20653001-3019 UGCCUUCCUGACUUAGAACdTdT 2632 AD-61909.1GAAGGCAUCAAUAUCCUAAdTdT 2066 3013-3031 UUAGGAUAUUGAUGCCUUCdTdT 2633AD-61915.1 UCAAUAUCCUAACCCACCUdTdT 2067 3020-3038AGGUGGGUUAGGAUAUUGAdTdT 2634 AD-61921.1 CCACCUCCCCAAAGGGAGUdTdT 20683033-3051 ACUCCCUUUGGGGAGGUGGdTdT 2635 AD-61927.1CCCCAAAGGGAGUGCAGAGdTdT 2069 3039-3057 CUCUGCACUCCCUUUGGGGdTdT 2636AD-61933.1 GUGCAGAGGCGGAGCUGAUdTdT 2070 3050-3068AUCAGCUCCGCCUCUGCACdTdT 2637 AD-61939.1 GGAGCUGAUGAGCGUUGUCdTdT 20713060-3078 GACAACGCUCAUCAGCUCCdTdT 2638 AD-61945.1CGUUGUCCCAGUAUUCUAUdTdT 2072 3072-3090 AUAGAAUACUGGGACAACGdTdT 2639AD-61951.1 CCAGUAUUCUAUGUUUUUCdTdT 2073 3079-3097GAAAAACAUAGAAUACUGGdTdT 2640 AD-61957.1 GUUUUUCACUACCUGGAAAdTdT 20743091-3109 UUUCCAGGUAGUGAAAAACdTdT 2641 AD-61963.1CCUGGAAACAGGAAAUCAUdTdT 2075 3102-3120 AUGAUUUCCUGUUUCCAGGdTdT 2642AD-61922.1 GGAACAUUUUUCAUUCUGAdTdT 2076 3122-3140UCAGAAUGAAAAAUGUUCCdTdT 2643 AD-61928.1 CAUUCUGACCCAUUAAUUGdTdT 20773133-3151 CAAUUAAUGGGUCAGAAUGdTdT 2644 AD-61934.1CCAUUAAUUGAAAAGCAGAdTdT 2078 3142-3160 UCUGCUUUUCAAUUAAUGGdTdT 2645AD-61940.1 AAAGCAGAAACUGAAGAAAdTdT 2079 3153-3171UUUCUUCAGUUUCUGCUUUdTdT 2646 AD-61946.1 AACUGAAGAAAAAAUUAAAdTdT 20803161-3179 UUUAAUUUUUUCUUCAGUUdTdT 2647 AD-61952.1AAAAAAUUAAAAGAAGGGAdTdT 2081 3169-3187 UCCCUUCUUUUAAUUUUUUdTdT 2648AD-61958.1 AGGGAUGUUGAGCAUUAUGdTdT 2082 3183-3201CAUAAUGCUCAACAUCCCUdTdT 2649 AD-61964.1 GAGCAUUAUGUCCUACAGAdTdT 20833192-3210 UCUGUAGGACAUAAUGCUCdTdT 2650 AD-61923.1UGUCCUACAGAAAUGCUGAdTdT 2084 3200-3218 UCAGCAUUUCUGUAGGACAdTdT 2651AD-61929.1 AAUGCUGACUACUCUUACAdTdT 2085 3211-3229UGUAAGAGUAGUCAGCAUUdTdT 2652 AD-61935.1 UACUCUUACAGUGUGUGGAdTdT 20863220-3238 UCCACACACUGUAAGAGUAdTdT 2653 AD-61941.1AGUGUGUGGAAGGGUGGAAdTdT 2087 3229-3247 UUCCACCCUUCCACACACUdTdT 2654AD-61947.1 GGGUGGAAGUGCUAGCACUdTdT 2088 3240-3258AGUGCUAGCACUUCCACCCdTdT 2655 AD-61953.1 GCUAGCACUUGGUUAACAGdTdT 20893250-3268 CUGUUAACCAAGUGCUAGCdTdT 2656 AD-61959.1GGUUAACAGCUUUUGCUUUdTdT 2090 3260-3278 AAAGCAAAAGCUGUUAACCdTdT 2657AD-61965.1 UGCUUUAAGAGUACUUGGAdTdT 2091 3273-3291UCCAAGUACUCUUAAAGCAdTdT 2658 AD-61924.1 GUACUUGGACAAGUAAAUAdTdT 20923283-3301 UAUUUACUUGUCCAAGUACdTdT 2659 AD-61930.1CAAGUAAAUAAAUACGUAGdTdT 2093 3292-3310 CUACGUAUUUAUUUACUUGdTdT 2660AD-61936.1 AUAAAUACGUAGAGCAGAAdTdT 2094 3299-3317UUCUGCUCUACGUAUUUAUdTdT 2661 AD-61942.1 GAGCAGAACCAAAAUUCAAdTdT 20953310-3328 UUGAAUUUUGGUUCUGCUCdTdT 2662 AD-61948.1AAUUCAAUUUGUAAUUCUUdTdT 2096 3322-3340 AAGAAUUACAAAUUGAAUUdTdT 2663AD-61954.1 GUAAUUCUUUAUUGUGGCUdTdT 2097 3332-3350AGCCACAAUAAAGAAUUACdTdT 2664 AD-61960.1 AUUGUGGCUAGUUGAGAAUdTdT 20983342-3360 AUUCUCAACUAGCCACAAUdTdT 2665 AD-61966.1CUAGUUGAGAAUUAUCAAUdTdT 2099 3349-3367 AUUGAUAAUUCUCAACUAGdTdT 2666AD-61925.1 UUAUCAAUUAGAUAAUGGAdTdT 2100 3360-3378UCCAUUAUCUAAUUGAUAAdTdT 2667 AD-61931.1 AAUGGAUCUUUCAAGGAAAdTdT 21013373-3391 UUUCCUUGAAAGAUCCAUUdTdT 2668 AD-61937.1CUUUCAAGGAAAAUUCACAdTdT 2102 3380-3398 UGUGAAUUUUCCUUGAAAGdTdT 2669AD-61943.1 AAUUCACAGUAUCAACCAAdTdT 2103 3391-3409UUGGUUGAUACUGUGAAUUdTdT 2670 AD-61949.1 GUAUCAACCAAUAAAAUUAdTdT 21043399-3417 UAAUUUUAUUGGUUGAUACdTdT 2671 AD-61955.1AAAAUUACAGGGUACCUUGdTdT 2105 3411-3429 CAAGGUACCCUGUAAUUUUdTdT 2672AD-61961.1 AGGGUACCUUGCCUGUUGAdTdT 2106 3419-3437UCAACAGGCAAGGUACCCUdTdT 2673 AD-61967.1 GUUGAAGCCCGAGAGAACAdTdT 21073433-3451 UGUUCUCUCGGGCUUCAACdTdT 2674 AD-61926.1CCGAGAGAACAGCUUAUAUdTdT 2108 3441-3459 AUAUAAGCUGUUCUCUCGGdTdT 2675AD-61932.1 GCUUAUAUCUUACAGCCUUdTdT 2109 3452-3470AAGGCUGUAAGAUAUAAGCdTdT 2676 AD-61938.1 CUUACAGCCUUUACUGUGAdTdT 21103460-3478 UCACAGUAAAGGCUGUAAGdTdT 2677 AD-61944.1GAAUUAGAAAGGCUUUCGAdTdT 2111 3482-3500 UCGAAAGCCUUUCUAAUUCdTdT 2678AD-61950.1 GGCUUUCGAUAUAUGCCCCdTdT 2112 3492-3510GGGGCAUAUAUCGAAAGCCdTdT 2679 AD-61956.1 GAUAUAUGCCCCCUGGUGAdTdT 21133499-3517 UCACCAGGGGGCAUAUAUCdTdT 2680 AD-61962.1GGUGAAAAUCGACACAGCUdTdT 2114 3513-3531 AGCUGUGUCGAUUUUCACCdTdT 2681AD-61968.1 CGACACAGCUCUAAUUAAAdTdT 2115 3522-3540UUUAAUUAGAGCUGUGUCGdTdT 2682 AD-61974.1 GCUCUAAUUAAAGCUGACAdTdT 21163529-3547 UGUCAGCUUUAAUUAGAGCdTdT 2683 AD-61980.1CUGACAACUUUCUGCUUGAdTdT 2117 3542-3560 UCAAGCAGAAAGUUGUCAGdTdT 2684AD-61986.1 CUUUCUGCUUGAAAAUACAdTdT 2118 3549-3567UGUAUUUUCAAGCAGAAAGdTdT 2685 AD-61992.1 AAAAUACACUGCCAGCCCAdTdT 21193560-3578 UGGGCUGGCAGUGUAUUUUdTdT 2686 AD-61998.1AGCCCAGAGCACCUUUACAdTdT 2120 3573-3591 UGUAAAGGUGCUCUGGGCUdTdT 2687AD-62004.1 GCACCUUUACAUUGGCCAUdTdT 2121 3581-3599AUGGCCAAUGUAAAGGUGCdTdT 2688 AD-62010.1 ACAUUGGCCAUUUCUGCGUdTdT 21223589-3607 ACGCAGAAAUGGCCAAUGUdTdT 2689 AD-61969.1CUGCGUAUGCUCUUUCCCUdTdT 2123 3602-3620 AGGGAAAGAGCAUACGCAGdTdT 2690AD-61975.1 CUUUCCCUGGGAGAUAAAAdTdT 2124 3613-3631UUUUAUCUCCCAGGGAAAGdTdT 2691 AD-61981.1 GAGAUAAAACUCACCCACAdTdT 21253623-3641 UGUGGGUGAGUUUUAUCUCdTdT 2692 AD-61987.1ACUCACCCACAGUUUCGUUdTdT 2126 3631-3649 AACGAAACUGUGGGUGAGUdTdT 2693AD-61993.1 CAGUUUCGUUCAAUUGUUUdTdT 2127 3640-3658AAACAAUUGAACGAAACUGdTdT 2694 AD-61999.1 CAAUUGUUUCAGCUUUGAAdTdT 21283650-3668 UUCAAAGCUGAAACAAUUGdTdT 2695 AD-62005.1CUUUGAAGAGAGAAGCUUUdTdT 2129 3662-3680 AAAGCUUCUCUCUUCAAAGdTdT 2696AD-62011.1 GAGAGAAGCUUUGGUUAAAdTdT 2130 3669-3687UUUAACCAAAGCUUCUCUCdTdT 2697 AD-61970.1 GUUAAAGGUAAUCCACCCAdTdT 21313682-3700 UGGGUGGAUUACCUUUAACdTdT 2698 AD-61976.1AAUCCACCCAUUUAUCGUUdTdT 2132 3691-3709 AACGAUAAAUGGGUGGAUUdTdT 2699AD-61982.1 CAUUUAUCGUUUUUGGAAAdTdT 2133 3699-3717UUUCCAAAAACGAUAAAUGdTdT 2700 AD-61988.1 UUUGGAAAGACAAUCUUCAdTdT 21343710-3728 UGAAGAUUGUCUUUCCAAAdTdT 2701 AD-61994.1AAUCUUCAGCAUAAAGACAdTdT 2135 3721-3739 UGUCUUUAUGCUGAAGAUUdTdT 2702AD-62006.1 CUCUGUACCUAACACUGGUdTdT 2136 3741-3759ACCAGUGUUAGGUACAGAGdTdT 2703 AD-62012.1 ACACUGGUACGGCACGUAUdTdT 21373752-3770 AUACGUGCCGUACCAGUGUdTdT 2704 AD-61971.1GGCACGUAUGGUAGAAACAdTdT 2138 3762-3780 UGUUUCUACCAUACGUGCCdTdT 2705AD-61977.1 GGUAGAAACAACUGCCUAUdTdT 2139 3771-3789AUAGGCAGUUGUUUCUACCdTdT 2706 AD-61983.1 CAACUGCCUAUGCUUUACUdTdT 21403779-3797 AGUAAAGCAUAGGCAGUUGdTdT 2707 AD-61989.1CUUUACUCACCAGUCUGAAdTdT 2141 3791-3809 UUCAGACUGGUGAGUAAAGdTdT 2708AD-61995.1 GUCUGAACUUGAAAGAUAUdTdT 2142 3803-3821AUAUCUUUCAAGUUCAGACdTdT 2709 AD-62001.1 ACUUGAAAGAUAUAAAUUAdTdT 21433809-3827 UAAUUUAUAUCUUUCAAGUdTdT 2710 AD-62007.1UAUAAAUUAUGUUAACCCAdTdT 2144 3819-3837 UGGGUUAACAUAAUUUAUAdTdT 2711AD-62013.1 GUUAACCCAGUCAUCAAAUdTdT 2145 3829-3847AUUUGAUGACUGGGUUAACdTdT 2712 AD-61972.1 UCAUCAAAUGGCUAUCAGAdTdT 21463839-3857 UCUGAUAGCCAUUUGAUGAdTdT 2713 AD-61978.1UAUCAGAAGAGCAGAGGUAdTdT 2147 3851-3869 UACCUCUGCUCUUCUGAUAdTdT 2714AD-61984.1 AGAGGUAUGGAGGUGGCUUdTdT 2148 3863-3881AAGCCACCUCCAUACCUCUdTdT 2715 AD-61990.1 GAGGUGGCUUUUAUUCAACdTdT 21493872-3890 GUUGAAUAAAAGCCACCUCdTdT 2716 AD-61996.1UAUUCAACCCAGGACACAAdTdT 2150 3883-3901 UUGUGUCCUGGGUUGAAUAdTdT 2717AD-62002.1 AGGACACAAUCAAUGCCAUdTdT 2151 3893-3911AUGGCAUUGAUUGUGUCCUdTdT 2718 AD-62008.1 CAAUCAAUGCCAUUGAGGGdTdT 21523899-3917 CCCUCAAUGGCAUUGAUUGdTdT 2719 AD-62014.1CAUUGAGGGCCUGACGGAAdTdT 2153 3909-3927 UUCCGUCAGGCCCUCAAUGdTdT 2720AD-61973.1 ACGGAAUAUUCACUCCUGGdTdT 2154 3922-3940CCAGGAGUGAAUAUUCCGUdTdT 2721 AD-61979.1 UUCACUCCUGGUUAAACAAdTdT 21553930-3948 UUGUUUAACCAGGAGUGAAdTdT 2722 AD-61985.1GGUUAAACAACUCCGCUUGdTdT 2156 3939-3957 CAAGCGGAGUUGUUUAACCdTdT 2723AD-61991.1 CCGCUUGAGUAUGGACAUCdTdT 2157 3951-3969GAUGUCCAUACUCAAGCGGdTdT 2724 AD-61997.1 GGACAUCGAUGUUUCUUACdTdT 21583963-3981 GUAAGAAACAUCGAUGUCCdTdT 2725 AD-62003.1CGAUGUUUCUUACAAGCAUdTdT 2159 3969-3987 AUGCUUGUAAGAAACAUCGdTdT 2726AD-62009.1 CAAGCAUAAAGGUGCCUUAdTdT 2160 3981-3999UAAGGCACCUUUAUGCUUGdTdT 2727 AD-62056.1 GUGCCUUACAUAAUUAUAAdTdT 21613992-4010 UUAUAAUUAUGUAAGGCACdTdT 2728 AD-62015.1ACAUAAUUAUAAAAUGACAdTdT 2162 3999-4017 UGUCAUUUUAUAAUUAUGUdTdT 2729AD-62021.1 AAAAUGACAGACAAGAAUUdTdT 2163 4009-4027AAUUCUUGUCUGUCAUUUUdTdT 2730 AD-62027.1 CAAGAAUUUCCUUGGGAGGdTdT 21644020-4038 CCUCCCAAGGAAAUUCUUGdTdT 2731 AD-62033.1CCUUGGGAGGCCAGUAGAGdTdT 2165 4029-4047 CUCUACUGGCCUCCCAAGGdTdT 2732AD-62039.1 AGUAGAGGUGCUUCUCAAUdTdT 2166 4041-4059AUUGAGAAGCACCUCUACUdTdT 2733 AD-62045.1 CUUCUCAAUGAUGACCUCAdTdT 21674051-4069 UGAGGUCAUCAUUGAGAAGdTdT 2734 AD-62051.1UGACCUCAUUGUCAGUACAdTdT 2168 4062-4080 UGUACUGACAAUGAGGUCAdTdT 2735AD-62057.1 GUCAGUACAGGAUUUGGCAdTdT 2169 4072-4090UGCCAAAUCCUGUACUGACdTdT 2736 AD-62016.1 AGGAUUUGGCAGUGGCUUGdTdT 21704080-4098 CAAGCCACUGCCAAAUCCUdTdT 2737 AD-62022.1UGGCUUGGCUACAGUACAUdTdT 2171 4092-4110 AUGUACUGUAGCCAAGCCAdTdT 2738AD-62028.1 GCUACAGUACAUGUAACAAdTdT 2172 4099-4117UUGUUACAUGUACUGUAGCdTdT 2739 AD-62034.1 AACAACUGUAGUUCACAAAdTdT 21734113-4131 UUUGUGAACUACAGUUGUUdTdT 2740 AD-62040.1GUAGUUCACAAAACCAGUAdTdT 2174 4120-4138 UACUGGUUUUGUGAACUACdTdT 2741AD-62046.1 AAACCAGUACCUCUGAGGAdTdT 2175 4130-4148UCCUCAGAGGUACUGGUUUdTdT 2742 AD-62052.1 UGAGGAAGUUUGCAGCUUUdTdT 21764143-4161 AAAGCUGCAAACUUCCUCAdTdT 2743 AD-62058.1UGCAGCUUUUAUUUGAAAAdTdT 2177 4153-4171 UUUUCAAAUAAAAGCUGCAdTdT 2744AD-62017.1 AUUUGAAAAUCGAUACUCAdTdT 2178 4163-4181UGAGUAUCGAUUUUCAAAUdTdT 2745 AD-62023.1 CGAUACUCAGGAUAUUGAAdTdT 21794173-4191 UUCAAUAUCCUGAGUAUCGdTdT 2746 AD-62029.1GGAUAUUGAAGCAUCCCACdTdT 2180 4182-4200 GUGGGAUGCUUCAAUAUCCdTdT 2747AD-62035.1 GAAGCAUCCCACUACAGAGdTdT 2181 4189-4207CUCUGUAGUGGGAUGCUUCdTdT 2748 AD-62041.1 ACUACAGAGGCUACGGAAAdTdT 21824199-4217 UUUCCGUAGCCUCUGUAGUdTdT 2749 AD-62047.1CGGAAACUCUGAUUACAAAdTdT 2183 4212-4230 UUUGUAAUCAGAGUUUCCGdTdT 2750AD-62053.1 UGAUUACAAACGCAUAGUAdTdT 2184 4221-4239UACUAUGCGUUUGUAAUCAdTdT 2751 AD-62059.1 GCAUAGUAGCAUGUGCCAGdTdT 21854232-4250 CUGGCACAUGCUACUAUGCdTdT 2752 AD-62018.1GCAUGUGCCAGCUACAAGCdTdT 2186 4240-4258 GCUUGUAGCUGGCACAUGCdTdT 2753AD-62024.1 CUACAAGCCCAGCAGGGAAdTdT 2187 4251-4269UUCCCUGCUGGGCUUGUAGdTdT 2754 AD-62030.1 CAGCAGGGAAGAAUCAUCAdTdT 21884260-4278 UGAUGAUUCUUCCCUGCUGdTdT 2755 AD-62036.1GAAUCAUCAUCUGGAUCCUdTdT 2189 4270-4288 AGGAUCCAGAUGAUGAUUCdTdT 2756AD-62042.1 GAUCCUCUCAUGCGGUGAUdTdT 2190 4283-4301AUCACCGCAUGAGAGGAUCdTdT 2757 AD-62048.1 CUCAUGCGGUGAUGGACAUdTdT 21914289-4307 AUGUCCAUCACCGCAUGAGdTdT 2758 AD-62054.1GAUGGACAUCUCCUUGCCUdTdT 2192 4299-4317 AGGCAAGGAGAUGUCCAUCdTdT 2759AD-62060.1 CUUGCCUACUGGAAUCAGUdTdT 2193 4311-4329ACUGAUUCCAGUAGGCAAGdTdT 2760 AD-62019.1 GAAUCAGUGCAAAUGAAGAdTdT 21944322-4340 UCUUCAUUUGCACUGAUUCdTdT 2761 AD-62025.1AAAUGAAGAAGACUUAAAAdTdT 2195 4332-4350 UUUUAAGUCUUCUUCAUUUdTdT 2762AD-62031.1 GAAGACUUAAAAGCCCUUGdTdT 2196 4339-4357CAAGGGCUUUUAAGUCUUCdTdT 2763 AD-62037.1 CCUUGUGGAAGGGGUGGAUdTdT 21974353-4371 AUCCACCCCUUCCACAAGGdTdT 2764 AD-62043.1GAAGGGGUGGAUCAACUAUdTdT 2198 4360-4378 AUAGUUGAUCCACCCCUUCdTdT 2765AD-62049.1 AUCAACUAUUCACUGAUUAdTdT 2199 4370-4388UAAUCAGUGAAUAGUUGAUdTdT 2766 AD-62055.1 CACUGAUUACCAAAUCAAAdTdT 22004380-4398 UUUGAUUUGGUAAUCAGUGdTdT 2767 AD-62061.1AUCAAAGAUGGACAUGUUAdTdT 2201 4393-4411 UAACAUGUCCAUCUUUGAUdTdT 2768AD-62020.1 GGACAUGUUAUUCUGCAACdTdT 2202 4402-4420GUUGCAGAAUAACAUGUCCdTdT 2769 AD-62026.1 UCUGCAACUGAAUUCGAUUdTdT 22034413-4431 AAUCGAAUUCAGUUGCAGAdTdT 2770 AD-62032.1GAAUUCGAUUCCCUCCAGUdTdT 2204 4422-4440 ACUGGAGGGAAUCGAAUUCdTdT 2771AD-62038.1 CCCUCCAGUGAUUUCCUUUdTdT 2205 4432-4450AAAGGAAAUCACUGGAGGGdTdT 2772 AD-62044.1 GAUUUCCUUUGUGUACGAUdTdT 22064441-4459 AUCGUACACAAAGGAAAUCdTdT 2773 AD-62050.1GUACGAUUCCGGAUAUUUGdTdT 2207 4453-4471 CAAAUAUCCGGAAUCGUACdTdT 2774AD-62320.1 CGGAUAUUUGAACUCUUUGdTdT 2208 4462-4480CAAAGAGUUCAAAUAUCCGdTdT 2775 AD-62326.1 ACUCUUUGAAGUUGGGUUUdTdT 22094473-4491 AAACCCAACUUCAAAGAGUdTdT 2776 AD-62332.1AGUUGGGUUUCUCAGUCCUdTdT 2210 4482-4500 AGGACUGAGAAACCCAACUdTdT 2777AD-62338.1 UUCUCAGUCCUGCCACUUUdTdT 2211 4490-4508AAAGUGGCAGGACUGAGAAdTdT 2778 AD-62344.1 CACUUUCACAGUGUACGAAdTdT 22124503-4521 UUCGUACACUGUGAAAGUGdTdT 2779 AD-62350.1CACAGUGUACGAAUACCACdTdT 2213 4509-4527 GUGGUAUUCGUACACUGUGdTdT 2780AD-62356.1 ACCACAGACCAGAUAAACAdTdT 2214 4523-4541UGUUUAUCUGGUCUGUGGUdTdT 2781 AD-62362.1 CCAGAUAAACAGUGUACCAdTdT 22154531-4549 UGGUACACUGUUUAUCUGGdTdT 2782 AD-62321.1CAGUGUACCAUGUUUUAUAdTdT 2216 4540-4558 UAUAAAACAUGGUACACUGdTdT 2783AD-62327.1 GUUUUAUAGCACUUCCAAUdTdT 2217 4551-4569AUUGGAAGUGCUAUAAAACdTdT 2784 AD-62333.1 CUUCCAAUAUCAAAAUUCAdTdT 22184562-4580 UGAAUUUUGAUAUUGGAAGdTdT 2785 AD-62339.1AUCAAAAUUCAGAAAGUCUdTdT 2219 4570-4588 AGACUUUCUGAAUUUUGAUdTdT 2786AD-62345.1 GAAAGUCUGUGAAGGAGCCdTdT 2220 4581-4599GGCUCCUUCACAGACUUUCdTdT 2787 AD-62351.1 GAAGGAGCCGCGUGCAAGUdTdT 22214591-4609 ACUUGCACGCGGCUCCUUCdTdT 2788 AD-62357.1CGUGCAAGUGUGUAGAAGCdTdT 2222 4601-4619 GCUUCUACACACUUGCACGdTdT 2789AD-62363.1 GUAGAAGCUGAUUGUGGGCdTdT 2223 4612-4630GCCCACAAUCAGCUUCUACdTdT 2790 AD-62322.1 CUGAUUGUGGGCAAAUGCAdTdT 22244619-4637 UGCAUUUGCCCACAAUCAGdTdT 2791 AD-62328.1GCAAAUGCAGGAAGAAUUGdTdT 2225 4629-4647 CAAUUCUUCCUGCAUUUGCdTdT 2792AD-62334.1 GAAGAAUUGGAUCUGACAAdTdT 2226 4639-4657UUGUCAGAUCCAAUUCUUCdTdT 2793 AD-62340.1 CUGACAAUCUCUGCAGAGAdTdT 22274651-4669 UCUCUGCAGAGAUUGUCAGdTdT 2794 AD-62346.1GCAGAGACAAGAAAACAAAdTdT 2228 4663-4681 UUUGUUUUCUUGUCUCUGCdTdT 2795AD-62352.1 CAAGAAAACAAACAGCAUGdTdT 2229 4670-4688CAUGCUGUUUGUUUUCUUGdTdT 2796 AD-62358.1 ACAGCAUGUAAACCAGAGAdTdT 22304681-4699 UCUCUGGUUUACAUGCUGUdTdT 2797 AD-62364.1CCAGAGAUUGCAUAUGCUUdTdT 2231 4693-4711 AAGCAUAUGCAAUCUCUGGdTdT 2798AD-62323.1 GCAUAUGCUUAUAAAGUUAdTdT 2232 4702-4720UAACUUUAUAAGCAUAUGCdTdT 2799 AD-62329.1 UUAUAAAGUUAGCAUCACAdTdT 22334710-4728 UGUGAUGCUAACUUUAUAAdTdT 2800 AD-62335.1CAUCACAUCCAUCACUGUAdTdT 2234 4722-4740 UACAGUGAUGGAUGUGAUGdTdT 2801AD-62341.1 UCACUGUAGAAAAUGUUUUdTdT 2235 4733-4751AAAACAUUUUCUACAGUGAdTdT 2802 AD-62347.1 AGAAAAUGUUUUUGUCAAGdTdT 22364740-4758 CUUGACAAAAACAUUUUCUdTdT 2803 AD-62353.1UUUGUCAAGUACAAGGCAAdTdT 2237 4750-4768 UUGCCUUGUACUUGACAAAdTdT 2804AD-62359.1 AGGCAACCCUUCUGGAUAUdTdT 2238 4763-4781AUAUCCAGAAGGGUUGCCUdTdT 2805 AD-62365.1 CCUUCUGGAUAUCUACAAAdTdT 22394770-4788 UUUGUAGAUAUCCAGAAGGdTdT 2806 AD-62324.1UAUCUACAAAACUGGGGAAdTdT 2240 4779-4797 UUCCCCAGUUUUGUAGAUAdTdT 2807AD-62330.1 CUGGGGAAGCUGUUGCUGAdTdT 2241 4790-4808UCAGCAACAGCUUCCCCAGdTdT 2808 AD-62336.1 CUGUUGCUGAGAAAGACUCdTdT 22424799-4817 GAGUCUUUCUCAGCAACAGdTdT 2809 AD-62342.1GACUCUGAGAUUACCUUCAdTdT 2243 4813-4831 UGAAGGUAAUCUCAGAGUCdTdT 2810AD-62348.1 GAGAUUACCUUCAUUAAAAdTdT 2244 4819-4837UUUUAAUGAAGGUAAUCUCdTdT 2811 AD-62354.1 AUUAAAAAGGUAACCUGUAdTdT 22454831-4849 UACAGGUUACCUUUUUAAUdTdT 2812 AD-62360.1UAACCUGUACUAACGCUGAdTdT 2246 4841-4859 UCAGCGUUAGUACAGGUUAdTdT 2813AD-62366.1 CUAACGCUGAGCUGGUAAAdTdT 2247 4850-4868UUUACCAGCUCAGCGUUAGdTdT 2814 AD-62325.1 GGUAAAAGGAAGACAGUACdTdT 22484863-4881 GUACUGUCUUCCUUUUACCdTdT 2815 AD-62331.1GAAGACAGUACUUAAUUAUdTdT 2249 4871-4889 AUAAUUAAGUACUGUCUUCdTdT 2816AD-62337.1 CUUAAUUAUGGGUAAAGAAdTdT 2250 4881-4899UUCUUUACCCAUAAUUAAGdTdT 2817 AD-62343.1 UAAAGAAGCCCUCCAGAUAdTdT 22514893-4911 UAUCUGGAGGGCUUCUUUAdTdT 2818 AD-62349.1CCUCCAGAUAAAAUACAAUdTdT 2252 4902-4920 AUUGUAUUUUAUCUGGAGGdTdT 2819AD-62355.1 AAAUACAAUUUCAGUUUCAdTdT 2253 4912-4930UGAAACUGAAAUUGUAUUUdTdT 2820 AD-62361.1 CAGUUUCAGGUACAUCUACdTdT 22544923-4941 GUAGAUGUACCUGAAACUGdTdT 2821 AD-62367.1GGUACAUCUACCCUUUAGAdTdT 2255 4931-4949 UCUAAAGGGUAGAUGUACCdTdT 2822AD-62373.1 CCUUUAGAUUCCUUGACCUdTdT 2256 4942-4960AGGUCAAGGAAUCUAAAGGdTdT 2823 AD-62379.1 CCUUGACCUGGAUUGAAUAdTdT 22574952-4970 UAUUCAAUCCAGGUCAAGGdTdT 2824 AD-62385.1GGAUUGAAUACUGGCCUAGdTdT 2258 4961-4979 CUAGGCCAGUAUUCAAUCCdTdT 2825AD-62391.1 CUGGCCUAGAGACACAACAdTdT 2259 4971-4989UGUUGUGUCUCUAGGCCAGdTdT 2826 AD-62397.1 GAGACACAACAUGUUCAUCdTdT 22604979-4997 GAUGAACAUGUUGUGUCUCdTdT 2827 AD-62403.1GUUCAUCGUGUCAAGCAUUdTdT 2261 4991-5009 AAUGCUUGACACGAUGAACdTdT 2828AD-62409.1 GUCAAGCAUUUUUAGCUAAdTdT 2262 5000-5018UUAGCUAAAAAUGCUUGACdTdT 2829 AD-62368.1 AGCUAAUUUAGAUGAAUUUdTdT 22635013-5031 AAAUUCAUCUAAAUUAGCUdTdT 2830 AD-62374.1AGAUGAAUUUGCCGAAGAUdTdT 2264 5022-5040 AUCUUCGGCAAAUUCAUCUdTdT 2831AD-62380.1 CCGAAGAUAUCUUUUUAAAdTdT 2265 5033-5051UUUAAAAAGAUAUCUUCGGdTdT 2832 AD-62386.1 CUUUUUAAAUGGAUGCUAAdTdT 22665043-5061 UUAGCAUCCAUUUAAAAAGdTdT 2833 AD-62392.1GGAUGCUAAAAUUCCUGAAdTdT 2267 5053-5071 UUCAGGAAUUUUAGCAUCCdTdT 2834AD-62398.1 UAAAAUUCCUGAAGUUCAGdTdT 2268 5059-5077CUGAACUUCAGGAAUUUUAdTdT 2835 AD-62404.1 AGUUCAGCUGCAUACAGUUdTdT 22695071-5089 AACUGUAUGCAGCUGAACUdTdT 2836 AD-62410.1GCAUACAGUUUGCACUUAUdTdT 2270 5080-5098 AUAAGUGCAAACUGUAUGCdTdT 2837AD-62369.1 ACUUAUGGACUCCUGUUGUdTdT 2271 5093-5111ACAACAGGAGUCCAUAAGUdTdT 2838 AD-62375.1 GGACUCCUGUUGUUGAAGUdTdT 22725099-5117 ACUUCAACAACAGGAGUCCdTdT 2839 AD-62381.1UGUUGAAGUUCGUUUUUUUdTdT 2273 5109-5127 AAAAAAACGAACUUCAACAdTdT 2840AD-62387.1 UUUUUUGUUUUCUUCUUUUdTdT 2274 5122-5140AAAAGAAGAAAACAAAAAAdTdT 2841 AD-62393.1 UCUUCUUUUUUUAAACAUUdTdT 22755132-5150 AAUGUUUAAAAAAAGAAGAdTdT 2842 AD-62399.1UUUUUAAACAUUCAUAGCUdTdT 2276 5139-5157 AGCUAUGAAUGUUUAAAAAdTdT 2843AD-62405.1 AUAGCUGGUCUUAUUUGUAdTdT 2277 5152-5170UACAAAUAAGACCAGCUAUdTdT 2844 AD-62411.1 GUCUUAUUUGUAAAGCUCAdTdT 22785159-5177 UGAGCUUUACAAAUAAGACdTdT 2845 AD-62370.1AAAGCUCACUUUACUUAGAdTdT 2279 5170-5188 UCUAAGUAAAGUGAGCUUUdTdT 2846AD-62376.1 ACUUAGAAUUAGUGGCACUdTdT 2280 5182-5200AGUGCCACUAAUUCUAAGUdTdT 2847 AD-62382.1 AGUGGCACUUGCUUUUAUUdTdT 22815192-5210 AAUAAAAGCAAGUGCCACUdTdT 2848 AD-62388.1GCUUUUAUUAGAGAAUGAUdTdT 2282 5202-5220 AUCAUUCUCUAAUAAAAGCdTdT 2849AD-62394.1 GAGAAUGAUUUCAAAUGCUdTdT 2283 5212-5230AGCAUUUGAAAUCAUUCUCdTdT 2850 AD-62400.1 UUUCAAAUGCUGUAACUUUdTdT 22845220-5238 AAAGUUACAGCAUUUGAAAdTdT 2851 AD-62406.1GUAACUUUCUGAAAUAACAdTdT 2285 5231-5249 UGUUAUUUCAGAAAGUUACdTdT 2852AD-62412.1 GAAAUAACAUGGCCUUGGAdTdT 2286 5241-5259UCCAAGGCCAUGUUAUUUCdTdT 2853 AD-62371.1 CCUUGGAGGGCAUGAAGACdTdT 22875253-5271 GUCUUCAUGCCCUCCAAGGdTdT 2854 AD-62377.1AGGGCAUGAAGACAGAUACdTdT 2288 5259-5277 GUAUCUGUCUUCAUGCCCUdTdT 2855AD-62383.1 GAUACUCCUCCAAGGUUAUdTdT 2289 5273-5291AUAACCUUGGAGGAGUAUCdTdT 2856 AD-62389.1 CCUCCAAGGUUAUUGGACAdTdT 22905279-5297 UGUCCAAUAACCUUGGAGGdTdT 2857 AD-62395.1GGACACCGGAAACAAUAAAdTdT 2291 5293-5311 UUUAUUGUUUCCGGUGUCCdTdT 2858AD-62401.1 GAAACAAUAAAUUGGAACAdTdT 2292 5301-5319UGUUCCAAUUUAUUGUUUCdTdT 2859 AD-62407.1 AUUGGAACACCUCCUCAAAdTdT 22935311-5329 UUUGAGGAGGUGUUCCAAUdTdT 2860 AD-62413.1UCCUCAAACCUACCACUCAdTdT 2294 5322-5340 UGAGUGGUAGGUUUGAGGAdTdT 2861AD-62372.1 CUACCACUCAGGAAUGUUUdTdT 2295 5331-5349AAACAUUCCUGAGUGGUAGdTdT 2862 AD-62378.1 AAUGUUUGCUGGGGCCGAAdTdT 22965343-5361 UUCGGCCCCAGCAAACAUUdTdT 2863 AD-62384.1UGCUGGGGCCGAAAGAACAdTdT 2297 5349-5367 UGUUCUUUCGGCCCCAGCAdTdT 2864AD-62390.1 AAAGAACAGUCCAUUGAAAdTdT 2298 5360-5378UUUCAAUGGACUGUUCUUUdTdT 2865 AD-62396.1 CAUUGAAAGGGAGUAUUACdTdT 22995371-5389 GUAAUACUCCCUUUCAAUGdTdT 2866 AD-62402.1GGAGUAUUACAAAAACAUGdTdT 2300 5380-5398 CAUGUUUUUGUAAUACUCCdTdT 2867AD-62408.1 AAAACAUGGCCUUUGCUUGdTdT 2301 5391-5409CAAGCAAAGGCCAUGUUUUdTdT 2868 AD-62414.1 GCCUUUGCUUGAAAGAAAAdTdT 23025399-5417 UUUUCUUUCAAGCAAAGGCdTdT 2869 AD-62415.1GAAAGAAAAUACCAAGGAAdTdT 2303 5409-5427 UUCCUUGGUAUUUUCUUUCdTdT 2870AD-62416.1 CCAAGGAACAGGAAACUGAdTdT 2304 5420-5438UCAGUUUCCUGUUCCUUGGdTdT 2871 AD-62417.1 AACUGAUCAUUAAAGCCUGdTdT 23055433-5451 CAGGCUUUAAUGAUCAGUUdTdT 2872

TABLE 22 C5 single dose screen (10 mM) in Hep3B cells with dT modifiediRNAs Duplex ID Avg. % message remaining AD-61779.2 43.2 AD-61785.2 22.5AD-61791.2 27.3 AD-61797.2 30.5 AD-61803.2 30.9 AD-61809.2 75.1AD-61815.2 90.7 AD-61821.2 33.7 AD-61780.2 53.5 AD-61786.2 34.4AD-61792.2 27.5 AD-61798.2 23.3 AD-61804.2 23.6 AD-61810.2 33.4AD-61816.2 39.7 AD-61822.2 24.9 AD-61781.2 31.2 AD-61787.2 22.8AD-61793.2 28.4 AD-61799.2 91 AD-61805.2 22.1 AD-61811.2 90.9 AD-61817.226.1 AD-61823.2 41.3 AD-61782.2 42.5 AD-61788.2 28.9 AD-61794.2 133.5AD-61800.2 27.9 AD-61806.2 42.8 AD-61812.2 26.9 AD-61818.2 30.6AD-61824.2 29.3 AD-61783.2 61.3 AD-61789.2 25.5 AD-61795.2 34.2AD-61801.2 24.2 AD-61807.2 42.8 AD-61813.2 31 AD-61819.2 42.2 AD-61825.231 AD-61784.2 34.1 AD-61790.2 26.8 AD-61796.2 34.6 AD-61802.2 30AD-61808.2 23.5 AD-61814.2 45.3 AD-61820.2 56 AD-61826.2 31.6 AD-61832.236.2 AD-61838.2 39.7 AD-61844.2 37 AD-61850.2 66.3 AD-61856.2 172.6AD-61862.2 41.3 AD-61868.2 32.2 AD-61827.2 52.7 AD-61833.2 29.6AD-61839.2 41.5 AD-61845.2 29.7 AD-61851.2 37 AD-61857.2 34.9 AD-61863.233.3 AD-61869.2 38.2 AD-61828.2 30.3 AD-61834.2 27.1 AD-61840.2 64.3AD-61846.2 42 AD-61852.2 25.2 AD-61858.2 96.7 AD-61864.2 29.6 AD-61870.230.5 AD-61829.2 92.7 AD-61835.2 24.8 AD-61841.2 59.2 AD-61847.2 30.9AD-61853.2 35.2 AD-61859.2 40.1 AD-61865.2 42.3 AD-61871.2 55.8AD-61830.2 162.9 AD-61836.2 28.8 AD-61842.2 18.2 AD-61848.2 25AD-61854.2 42.3 AD-61860.2 41.7 AD-61866.2 28.9 AD-61872.2 64.7AD-61831.2 16.9 AD-61837.2 24.9 AD-61843.2 27.5 AD-61849.2 25.8AD-61855.2 20 AD-61861.2 28.6 AD-61867.2 18 AD-62062.1 22 AD-62068.129.9 AD-62074.1 40.2 AD-62080.1 30.4 AD-62086.1 21 AD-62092.1 20AD-62098.1 38.4 AD-62104.1 42.7 AD-62063.1 26.6 AD-62069.1 55.6AD-62075.1 114.4 AD-62081.1 21.2 AD-62087.1 33.8 AD-62093.1 26.3AD-62099.1 23.9 AD-62105.1 30.1 AD-62064.1 32 AD-62070.1 135.7AD-62076.1 84.3 AD-62082.1 42.3 AD-62088.1 36.5 AD-62094.1 66 AD-62100.166.4 AD-62106.1 33.9 AD-62065.1 33 AD-62071.1 38.4 AD-62077.1 27.8AD-62083.1 44.7 AD-62089.1 42.7 AD-62095.1 46.6 AD-62101.1 35.3AD-62107.1 29.9 AD-62066.1 33.5 AD-62072.1 27.5 AD-62078.1 49.9AD-62084.1 117.6 AD-62090.1 44 AD-62096.1 33.5 AD-62102.1 39.2AD-62108.1 69.5 AD-62067.1 32.3 AD-62073.1 81.1 AD-62079.1 46.8AD-62085.1 31.6 AD-62091.1 32 AD-62097.1 35.3 AD-62103.1 35.6 AD-62109.124.7 AD-62115.1 25.7 AD-62121.1 23.1 AD-62127.1 36.3 AD-62133.1 50.9AD-62139.1 84.1 AD-62145.1 90.8 AD-62151.1 56.9 AD-62110.1 26 AD-62116.1145.5 AD-62122.1 198.7 AD-62128.1 178.4 AD-62134.1 52.4 AD-62140.1 55.6AD-62146.1 47.2 AD-62152.1 16.4 AD-62111.1 49.3 AD-62117.1 46.2AD-62123.1 95.1 AD-62129.1 156.2 AD-62135.1 62 AD-62141.1 128.1AD-62147.1 146.2 AD-62153.1 35.5 AD-62112.1 43 AD-62118.1 32 AD-62124.148.4 AD-62130.1 49.4 AD-62136.1 141.9 AD-62142.1 38.7 AD-62148.1 165.2AD-62154.1 94.7 AD-62113.1 52.5 AD-62119.1 44 AD-62125.1 129.9AD-62131.1 68.9 AD-62137.1 106 AD-62143.1 176.1 AD-62149.1 201.3AD-62155.1 143.3 AD-62114.1 22.8 AD-62120.1 34.6 AD-62126.1 44.6AD-62132.1 39.5 AD-62138.1 34.5 AD-62144.1 28 AD-62150.1 22.1 AD-62156.144.1 AD-62162.1 19.8 AD-62168.1 17.3 AD-62174.1 27 AD-62180.1 15.8AD-62186.1 20.5 AD-62192.1 33.9 AD-62198.1 14 AD-62157.1 19.3 AD-62163.115.4 AD-62169.1 23.6 AD-62175.1 29.6 AD-62181.1 26.4 AD-62187.1 28.8AD-62193.1 22.9 AD-62199.1 16.4 AD-62158.1 18.5 AD-62164.1 19.1AD-62170.1 15 AD-62176.1 62.7 AD-62182.1 70.8 AD-62188.1 81.1 AD-62194.163.6 AD-62200.1 21.6 AD-62159.1 42.8 AD-62165.1 27.7 AD-62171.1 31.9AD-62177.1 29.6 AD-62183.1 25.2 AD-62189.1 32.7 AD-62195.1 73.1AD-62201.1 35.6 AD-62160.1 56.5 AD-62166.1 115.1 AD-62172.1 107.4AD-62178.1 71.3 AD-62184.1 27.2 AD-62190.1 37.2 AD-62196.1 19.5AD-62202.1 19.4 AD-62161.1 23.7 AD-62167.1 24.4 AD-62173.1 36 AD-62179.150.5 AD-62185.1 40.5 AD-62191.1 39.3 AD-62197.1 39.4 AD-62203.1 34.1AD-62209.1 34.6 AD-62215.1 31 AD-62221.1 16.3 AD-62227.1 68.5 AD-62233.134.3 AD-62239.1 37.2 AD-62245.1 31.2 AD-62204.1 33 AD-62210.1 29AD-62216.1 38.7 AD-62222.1 34.5 AD-62228.1 30.3 AD-62234.1 15.2AD-62240.1 26.2 AD-62246.1 40.4 AD-62205.1 17.1 AD-62211.1 20.9AD-62217.1 49.8 AD-62223.1 40 AD-62229.1 26.7 AD-62235.1 21.5 AD-62241.146.2 AD-62247.1 40.4 AD-62206.1 42.2 AD-62212.1 51.7 AD-62218.1 26AD-62224.1 40.3 AD-62230.1 32.8 AD-62236.1 52.4 AD-62242.1 33.1AD-62248.1 18 AD-62207.1 19.7 AD-62213.1 43.4 AD-62219.1 39.8 AD-62225.134.3 AD-62231.1 37.2 AD-62237.1 25.9 AD-62243.1 19.8 AD-62249.1 13.8AD-62208.1 13.7 AD-62214.1 16.6 AD-62220.1 25.2 AD-62226.1 27 AD-62232.136.5 AD-62238.1 51.5 AD-62244.1 31.5 AD-61874.1 27.1 AD-61880.1 30.8AD-61886.1 30.4 AD-61892.1 48.9 AD-61898.1 24.7 AD-61904.1 125.9AD-61910.1 45.7 AD-61916.1 25.7 AD-61875.1 33.4 AD-61881.1 64 AD-61887.136.7 AD-61893.1 22.9 AD-61899.1 84.5 AD-61905.1 32.1 AD-61911.1 23.7AD-61917.1 22.1 AD-61876.1 47.3 AD-61882.1 26.5 AD-61888.1 27.7AD-61894.1 64.8 AD-61900.1 89.8 AD-61906.1 22.4 AD-61912.1 19.8AD-61918.1 37.1 AD-61877.1 145 AD-61883.1 31.5 AD-61889.1 33.9AD-61895.1 37.5 AD-61901.1 26.1 AD-61907.1 33 AD-61913.1 33.1 AD-61919.136.6 AD-61878.1 26.9 AD-61884.1 33.9 AD-61890.1 37.2 AD-61896.1 41.7AD-61902.1 58.6 AD-61908.1 28 AD-61914.1 31.4 AD-61920.1 27.1 AD-61879.133.1 AD-61885.1 33.7 AD-61891.1 41.3 AD-61897.1 39.4 AD-61903.1 51.5AD-61909.1 48.6 AD-61915.1 122.4 AD-61921.1 66.4 AD-61927.1 40.5AD-61933.1 27.7 AD-61939.1 28.1 AD-61945.1 30 AD-61951.1 33.7 AD-61957.132.6 AD-61963.1 17 AD-61922.1 32.9 AD-61928.1 28.3 AD-61934.1 24AD-61940.1 28.2 AD-61946.1 33.2 AD-61952.1 167.9 AD-61958.1 37AD-61964.1 30.6 AD-61923.1 51.2 AD-61929.1 29.4 AD-61935.1 61 AD-61941.129.5 AD-61947.1 28.9 AD-61953.1 23.7 AD-61959.1 18.9 AD-61965.1 17AD-61924.1 24.1 AD-61930.1 31.9 AD-61936.1 36.9 AD-61942.1 13.8AD-61948.1 40.2 AD-61954.1 41.8 AD-61960.1 24.1 AD-61966.1 18.9AD-61925.1 52.4 AD-61931.1 25.8 AD-61937.1 19.1 AD-61943.1 27.8AD-61949.1 26.5 AD-61955.1 83.8 AD-61961.1 26 AD-61967.1 16.3 AD-61926.117.8 AD-61932.1 18.6 AD-61938.1 31.9 AD-61944.1 29.5 AD-61950.1 57.8AD-61956.1 42.1 AD-61962.1 30 AD-61968.1 29.1 AD-61974.1 50.8 AD-61980.119.7 AD-61986.1 36.4 AD-61992.1 36.3 AD-61998.1 18.3 AD-62004.1 14AD-62010.1 56.8 AD-61969.1 30 AD-61975.1 51.1 AD-61981.1 37.6 AD-61987.132.5 AD-61993.1 23.4 AD-61999.1 43.8 AD-62005.1 23.8 AD-62011.1 32.7AD-61970.1 39.6 AD-61976.1 27.5 AD-61982.1 64.9 AD-61988.1 29.5AD-61994.1 40.5 AD-62006.1 42.1 AD-62012.1 21 AD-61971.1 27.1 AD-61977.123.4 AD-61983.1 57.5 AD-61989.1 25.8 AD-61995.1 18.2 AD-62001.1 29.7AD-62007.1 106.4 AD-62013.1 36.1 AD-61972.1 40.5 AD-61978.1 49.1AD-61984.1 24.3 AD-61990.1 38.8 AD-61996.1 40.5 AD-62002.1 32.5AD-62008.1 35.3 AD-62014.1 23.6 AD-61973.1 39.3 AD-61979.1 27.4AD-61985.1 31.3 AD-61991.1 34.9 AD-61997.1 29.2 AD-62003.1 25.9AD-62009.1 21.1 AD-62056.1 16.3 AD-62015.1 139.3 AD-62021.1 36.4AD-62027.1 42.4 AD-62033.1 62 AD-62039.1 35.2 AD-62045.1 30.8 AD-62051.122.9 AD-62057.1 31.8 AD-62016.1 29.2 AD-62022.1 36.9 AD-62028.1 52.6AD-62034.1 31 AD-62040.1 30.7 AD-62046.1 28.2 AD-62052.1 23.7 AD-62058.177.9 AD-62017.1 41 AD-62023.1 27 AD-62029.1 31.8 AD-62035.1 46.4AD-62041.1 25.3 AD-62047.1 20 AD-62053.1 37.1 AD-62059.1 31 AD-62018.137.8 AD-62024.1 34.7 AD-62030.1 50.4 AD-62036.1 25.5 AD-62042.1 32.5AD-62048.1 28.3 AD-62054.1 55.6 AD-62060.1 26.9 AD-62019.1 29 AD-62025.178.5 AD-62031.1 152.8 AD-62037.1 27.3 AD-62043.1 33.8 AD-62049.1 46AD-62055.1 24.5 AD-62061.1 30.5 AD-62020.1 25.1 AD-62026.1 24.9AD-62032.1 23 AD-62038.1 21.2 AD-62044.1 34.1 AD-62050.1 22.4 AD-62320.116.6 AD-62326.1 16.6 AD-62332.1 15.4 AD-62338.1 41.9 AD-62344.1 19.6AD-62350.1 32.3 AD-62356.1 20.4 AD-62362.1 27.8 AD-62321.1 18.7AD-62327.1 14.8 AD-62333.1 22.2 AD-62339.1 134.5 AD-62345.1 32.1AD-62351.1 35.6 AD-62357.1 31 AD-62363.1 28.2 AD-62322.1 45.1 AD-62328.130.1 AD-62334.1 39.1 AD-62340.1 24.3 AD-62346.1 35.4 AD-62352.1 33.8AD-62358.1 45.7 AD-62364.1 19.7 AD-62323.1 40.5 AD-62329.1 57.5AD-62335.1 27.6 AD-62341.1 69.2 AD-62347.1 125.9 AD-62353.1 53.1AD-62359.1 38.1 AD-62365.1 23.6 AD-62324.1 27.1 AD-62330.1 25.1AD-62336.1 25.3 AD-62342.1 45.4 AD-62348.1 91.6 AD-62354.1 132.1AD-62360.1 31.6 AD-62366.1 14.2 AD-62325.1 27.9 AD-62331.1 31.5AD-62337.1 33.9 AD-62343.1 36.1 AD-62349.1 37.6 AD-62355.1 38.8AD-62361.1 46.1 AD-62367.1 23.6 AD-62373.1 32.1 AD-62379.1 29.6AD-62385.1 35.7 AD-62391.1 33.7 AD-62397.1 54.1 AD-62403.1 34.8AD-62409.1 28.2 AD-62368.1 29.7 AD-62374.1 29.6 AD-62380.1 30.6AD-62386.1 23.4 AD-62392.1 30.5 AD-62398.1 48.7 AD-62404.1 24.8AD-62410.1 21.9 AD-62369.1 27.4 AD-62375.1 31.9 AD-62381.1 27.3AD-62387.1 77 AD-62393.1 93.3 AD-62399.1 150.2 AD-62405.1 28.5AD-62411.1 19.4 AD-62370.1 16.3 AD-62376.1 48.2 AD-62382.1 28.5AD-62388.1 49.9 AD-62394.1 29.9 AD-62400.1 45.2 AD-62406.1 23 AD-62412.145.5 AD-62371.1 66.5 AD-62377.1 49.5 AD-62383.1 73.8 AD-62389.1 82.4AD-62395.1 31.8 AD-62401.1 31.2 AD-62407.1 30.2 AD-62413.1 28.1AD-62372.1 43 AD-62378.1 17.9 AD-62384.1 29.6 AD-62390.1 37.7 AD-62396.126 AD-62402.1 31.6 AD-62408.1 46.6 AD-62414.1 27.2 AD-62415.1 17.6AD-62416.1 25.3 AD-62417.1 36.3 AD-61779.2 43.2 AD-61785.2 22.5AD-61791.2 27.3 AD-61797.2 30.5 AD-61803.2 30.9 AD-61809.2 75.1AD-61815.2 90.7 AD-61821.2 33.7 AD-61780.2 53.5 AD-61786.2 34.4AD-61792.2 27.5 AD-61798.2 23.3 AD-61804.2 23.6

Example 7 In Vivo Screening of Additional siRNAs

Based on the sequence of AD-58643, an additional four sense and threeantisense sequences were synthesized and used to prepare twelve, 21/25mer compounds (Table 23). In general, the antisense strands of thesecompounds were extended with a dTdT and the duplexes had fewerfluoro-modified nucleotides.

C57BL/6 mice (N=3 per group) were injected subcutaneously with 1 mg/kgof these GalNAc conjugated duplexes, serum was collected on day 0pre-bleed, and day 5, and the levels of C5 proteins were quantified byELISA. C5 protein levels were normalized to the day 0 pre-bleed level.

FIG. 14 shows the results of an in vivo single dose screen with theindicated iRNAs. Data are expressed as percent of C5 protein remainingrelative to pre-bleed levels. Those iRNAs having improved efficacy ascompared to the parent compound included AD-62510, AD-62643, AD-62645,AD-62646, AD-62650, and AD-62651. These iRNAs also demontsrated similarpotencies (IC₅₀ of about 23-59 μM).

The efficacy of these iRNAs was also tested in C57Bl/6 mice using asingle-dosing administration protocol. Mice were subcutaneouslyadministered AD-62510, AD-62643, AD-62645, AD-62646, AD-62650, andAD-62651 at a 0.25 mg/kg, 0.5 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg, or 2.5 mg/kg dose. Serumwas collected at days 0 and 5 and analyzed for C5 protein levels byELISA. C5 levels were normalized to the day 0 pre-bleed level.

FIG. 15 shows that there is a dose response with all of the tested iRNAsand that single-dosing of all of these iRNAs achieved silencing of C5protein similar to or better than AD-58641.

The duration of silencing of AD-62510, AD-62643, AD-62645, AD-62646,AD-62650, and AD-62651 in vivo was determined by administering a single1.0 mg/kg dose to C57Bl/6 mice and determining the amount of C5 proteinpresent on days 6, 13, 20, 27, and 34 by ELISA. C5 levels werenormalized to the day 0 pre-bleed level.

As demonstrated in FIG. 16, each of the iRNAs tested has the samerecovery kinetics as AD-62643 trending toward the best silencing, butwithin the error of the assay.

AD-62510, AD-62643, AD-62645, AD-62646, AD-62650, and AD-62651 werefurther tested for efficacy and to evaluate the cumulative effect of theiRNAs in rats using a repeat administration protocol. Wild-type SpragueDawley rats were subcutaneously injected with each of the iRNAs at a 5.0mg/kg/dose on days 0, 4, and 7. Serum was collected on days 0, 4, 7, 11,14, 18, 25, 28, and 32. Serum hemolytic activity was quantified asdescribed above.

The results depicted in FIG. 17 demonstrate that all of the tested iRNAshave a potent and durable decrease in hemolytic activity and a similarrecovery of hemolysis to that observed with AD-58641 treatment.

TABLE 23Modified Sense and Antisense Strand Sequences of GalNAc-Conjugated C5 dsRNAs.Duplex SEQ ID SEQ ID ID sense ID Sense (5′ to 3′) NO: AS IDAntisense (5′ to 3′) NO: AD-58643 A-119326.1AfsasGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuUfaUfaAfuAfL96 2873 A-119327.1usAfsuUfaUfaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcUfususu 2886 AD-62642 A-125167.7asasGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuuAfuAfauaL96 2874 A-125139.1usAfsuuaUfaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT 2887 AD-62510 A-125167.7asasGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuuAfuAfauaL96 2875 A-125173.2usAfsUfuAfuAfAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT 2888 AD-62643 A-125167.7asasGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuuAfuAfauaL96 2876 A-125647.1usAfsUfuAfuaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT 2889 AD-62644 A-125157.17asasGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuuAfuaAfuaL96 2877 A-125139.1usAfsuuaUfaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT 2890 AD-62645 A-125157.17asasGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuuAfuaAfuaL96 2878 A-125173.2usAfsUfuAfuAfAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT 2891 AD-62646 A-125157.17asasGfcAfaGfaUfAfUfuUfuuAfuaAfuaL96 2879 A-125647.1usAfsUfuAfuaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT 2892 AD-62647 A-125134.1asasgcaagauaUfuuuua(Tgn)aauaL96 2880 A-125139.1usAfsuuaUfaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT 2893 AD-62648 A-125134.1asasgcaagauaUfuuuua(Tgn)aauaL96 2881 A-125173.2usAfsUfuAfuAfAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT 2894 AD-62649 A-125134.1asasgcaagauaUfuuuua(Tgn)aauaL96 2882 A-125647.1usAfsUfuAfuaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT 2895 AD-62428 A-125127.2asasgcaagaUfaUfuuuuauaauaL96 2883 A-125139.1usAfsuuaUfaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT 2896 AD-62650 A-125127.2asasgcaagaUfaUfuuuuauaauaL96 2884 A-125173.2usAfsUfuAfuAfAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT 2897 AD-62651 A-125127.2asasgcaagaUfaUfuuuuauaauaL96 2885 A-125647.1usAfsUfuAfuaAfaAfauaUfcUfuGfcuususudTdT 2898

1. A double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) agent for inhibitingexpression of complement component C5, wherein said dsRNA comprises asense strand and an antisense strand forming a double stranded region,wherein said sense strand comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotidesdiffering by no more than 3 nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence ofSEQ ID NO:1 and said antisense strand comprises at least 15 contiguousnucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotides from the nucleotidesequence of SEQ ID NO:5, wherein substantially all of the nucleotides ofthe sense strand and substantially all of the nucleotides of theantisense strand are modified nucleotides.
 2. The dsRNA agent of claim1, wherein the antisense strand comprises a region of complementarity toan mRNA encoding complement component C5, wherein the region ofcomplementarity comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differingby no more than 3 nucleotides from any one of the antisense nucleotidesequences listed in any one of Tables 3, 4, 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21, and23. 3.-6. (canceled)
 7. The double stranded RNAi agent of claim 1,wherein all of the nucleotides of said sense strand and all of thenucleotides of said antisense strand comprise a modification.
 8. ThedsRNA agent of claim 1, wherein at least one of said modifiednucleotides is selected from the group consisting of a 3′-terminaldeoxy-thymine (dT) nucleotide, a 2′-O-methyl modified nucleotide, a2′-fluoro modified nucleotide, a 2′-deoxy-modified nucleotide, a lockednucleotide, an abasic nucleotide, a 2′-amino-modified nucleotide, a2′-alkyl-modified nucleotide, a morpholino nucleotide, aphosphoramidate, a non-natural base comprising nucleotide, a nucleotidecomprising a 5′-phosphorothioate group, and a terminal nucleotide linkedto a cholesteryl derivative or a dodecanoic acid bisdecylamide group. 9.(canceled)
 10. The dsRNA agent of claim 2, wherein the region ofcomplementarity is at least 17 nucleotides in length; 19-21 nucleotidesin length; 19 nucleotides in length; or 21-23 nucleotides in length. 11.(canceled)
 12. (canceled)
 13. The dsRNA agent of claim 1, wherein eachstrand is no more than 30 nucleotides in length.
 14. The dsRNA agent ofclaim 1, wherein at least one strand comprises a 3′ overhang of at least1 nucleotide; or at least one strand comprises a 3′ overhang of at least2 nucleotides.
 15. (canceled)
 16. The dsRNA agent of claim 1, furthercomprising a ligand.
 17. The dsRNA agent of claim 16, wherein the ligandis conjugated to the 3′ end of the sense strand of the dsRNA agent. 18.The dsRNA agent of claim 16, wherein the ligand is anN-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) derivative.
 19. The dsRNA agent of claim18, wherein the ligand is


20. The dsRNA agent of claim 18, wherein the dsRNA agent is conjugatedto the ligand as shown in the following schematic

and, wherein X is O or S. 21.-34. (canceled)
 35. The dsRNA agent ofclaim 1, wherein the double-stranded region is 15-30 nucleotide pairs inlength; 17-23 nucleotide pairs in length; 7-25 nucleotide pairs inlength; 23-27 nucleotide pairs in length; 19-21 nucleotide pairs inlength; or 21-23 nucleotide pairs in length. 36.-40. (canceled)
 41. ThedsRNA agent of claim 1, wherein each strand is 15-30 nucleotides inlength; or 19-30 nucleotides in length. 42.-48. (canceled)
 49. The dsRNAagent of claim 1, wherein the agent further comprises at least onephosphorothioate or methylphosphonate internucleotide linkage. 50.-77.(canceled)
 78. A cell containing the dsRNA agent of claim
 1. 79.-82.(canceled)
 83. A pharmaceutical composition for inhibiting expression ofa complement component C5 gene comprising the dsRNA agent of claim 1.84.-91. (canceled)
 92. A method of inhibiting complement component C5expression in a cell, the method comprising: (a) contacting the cellwith the dsRNA agent of claim 1 or a pharmaceutical composition of claim83; and (b) maintaining the cell produced in step (a) for a timesufficient to obtain degradation of the mRNA transcript of a complementcomponent C5 gene, thereby inhibiting expression of the complementcomponent C5 gene in the cell.
 93. The method of claim 92, wherein saidcell is within a subject.
 94. The method of claim 93, wherein thesubject is a human.
 95. (canceled)
 96. A method of treating a subjecthaving a disease or disorder that would benefit from reduction incomplement component C5 expression, the method comprising administeringto the subject a therapeutically effective amount of the dsRNA agent ofclaim 1, or a pharmaceutical composition of claim 83, thereby treatingthe subject. 97.-111. (canceled)